Somewhat shockingly, running back Dalvin Cook remains available in free agency. The state of the running back market has been a major topic of discussion recently and one of the game’s best players at the position remaining a free agent certainly isn’t going to help the cause.
However, we could be nearing a conclusion to the Dalvin Cook sweepstakes. According to sources for ProFootballTalk, negotiations between the New York Jets and Dalvin Cook are expected to pick up now that the Hall of Fame game to kick off preseason has been played.
Dalvin Cook has been present near the Jets’ camp for a few days now. He had an official visit with the team on Sunday and all signs are pointing toward him joining Gang Green at some point. The massive pay cut that Aaron Rodgers voluntarily took, giving back $35 million, was done in part to upgrade the roster around him.
One of those upgrades could very likely be Dalvin Cook. The former Minnesota Vikings tailback has made the Pro Bowl four straight seasons and would be a nice upgrade to the Jets’ backfield.
With Breece Hall continuing to rehab, the Jets could certainly use some reinforcements at running back. Their depth chart currently includes Michael Carter, Zonovan Knight and rookie fifth-round pick Israel Abankianda.
Signing Dalvin Cook would enable the Jets to bring Hall around slowly and not rush his rehab. He is more than capable of handling the lead role in the backfield until Hall is 100 percent healthy and ready to return to the lineup.
If the Jets are going to get a deal done with Dalvin Cook, the sooner the better. They aren’t the only team that has shown interest in him, as the Denver Broncos, Miami Dolphins and New England Patriots have also been linked to the Florida State product.
To this point, no offer has enticed Dalvin Cook enough to sign on the dotted line. Eventually, something he likes will be presented to him but he is certainly in no rush to sign. Whoever lands Dalvin Cook will be getting a very talented player, one of the best in the NFL at his position.
