After being released by the Minnesota Vikings, running back Dalvin Cook immediately generated interest from some of the best teams in football. However, one suitor has seemingly dropped out and his asking price could alter his market considerably.
Minnesota attempted to trade Cook this offseason but struggled to find a trade partner with other teams hesitant to take on the remainder of his contract and sacrifice a draft pick. As a result, the Vikings released him after June 1 and allowed the veteran running back to choose his next home.
Related: Dalvin Cook immediately drawing interest from two teams
- Dalvin Cook career earnings: $32.2 million
The New York Jets, Denver Broncos and Miami Dolphins were quickly mentioned as teams to watch. All three were believed to be in the market for a running back, with Cook providing a high-end starting option. However, one of those teams is now reportedly not going to be involved.
Mike Klis of 9News.com reported over the weekend that the Broncos do not appear to be in on Cook. While Denver was mentioned as a possibility following his release, the organization likes where it’s at with Javonte Williams, Samaje Perine and Tony Jones Jr.
According to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network, Cook isn’t open to a team-friendly deal. Teams offering a “$4-5 million contract” won’t be putting enough on the table as the four-time Pro Bowl selection is seeking a “significant contract” in order to sign.
- Dalvin Cook career stats: 5,993 rushing yards, 1,794 receiving yards, 52 total touchdowns, 4.7 yards per carry in 73 games
Cook might struggle to land a deal that makes him one of the highest-paid running backs. He finished last season 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. per Next Gen Stats.
If Cook wants to make more than $5 million per season, pushing closer to $8 million as the floor for any contract, it might also take the Jets out of the running. Robert Saleh told reporters on Friday that the team would look into Cook but money would be a factor.
If both the Jets and Broncos take themselves out of the mix to sign Cook, the Dolphins’ odds of landing him increase significantly with the Dallas Cowboys and Buffalo Bills also potentially in the mix.