Dalvin Cook remains a running back more than a month after being released by the Minnesota Vikings. As NFL training camp begins, there is reportedly a new reason why NFL teams are hesitant to sign the Pro Bowl offensive weapon.
Cook, a four-time Pro Bowl selection, is coming off is fourth consecutive season with at least 1,300 scrimmage yards. The veteran is responsible for 6,423 scrimmage yards over the last four seasons and remains an effective receiving option on third downs.
- Dalvin Cook career stats: 5,993 rushing yards, 1,794 receiving yards, 52 total touchdowns, 4.7 yards per carry in 73 games
However, despite receiving interest from the New England Patriots, New York Jets and Miami Dolphins, Cook remains unsigned. Now, in light of new court documents alleging he offered his ex-girlfriend $1 million to absolve him of allegations of domestic violence, there’s a new concern around the league.
According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, there has been chatter around the NFL regarding teams growing hesitation about the possibility of Cook being suspended.
Cook has denied the allegations against him and has filed a countersuit against his accuser for harming his reputation. However, the court filing alleging that he offered a bribe for the accuser to speak favorably about him to the NFL could be revisited by league officials.
It’s not the only reason Cook remains unsigned. Despite making the Pro Bowl in each of the last four years, the advanced stats indicate that Cook has regressed significantly.
According to Next Gen Stats, Cook ranked 32nd in yards created per touch (2.4), 30th in breakaway run rate (4.5%) and 37th in true yards per carry (4.1). Furthermore, his yards after contact per attempt dipped from 2.4 (2020) to 1.9 (2021) and finally 1.8 this past season.
- Dalvin Cook career earnings: $32.2 million
Despite his declining effectiveness, multiple NFL teams still want to sign Cook. However, the veteran’s demands from his new team are proving to be a problem.
He still wants to be one of the highest-paid running backs in 2023, but teams no longer view him as an everyday player who can handle a featured workload.
Related: NFL predictions 2023
It should still only be a matter of time before Cook signs, likely with the Dolphins or Jets. However, all three factors working against him will likely dramatically lower the financial figures of the contract he eventually signs.