The Miami Dolphins traded for All-Pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey to serve as their big splash instead of diving into NFL free agency. Now, the Dolphins could make another big move despite not having a first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Miami generated strong reviews from NFL executives for its offseason additions. The Dolphins rose in both the NFL power rankings and Sportsnaut’s NFL defense rankings for 2023, becoming viewed as a legitimate Super Bowl contender.
- Dalvin Cook stats (2022): 1,468 scrimmage yards, 10 total touchdowns, 4.4 yards per carry, 67.4 PFF grade
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With the entire organization committed to an all-in approach for the upcoming season, Miami could reportedly use the 2023 NFL Draft to further improve its Super Bowl odds.
According to ESPN, many around the NFL believe the Dolphins ‘could get aggressive’ if the Minnesota Vikings decide to trade running back Dalvin Cook during the 2023 NFL Draft.
Related: NFL reporter suggests mutual interest between Dalvin Cook, Miami Dolphins
Cook has floated in NFL trade rumors for weeks, with the Vikings open to moving on from him. Minnesota’s general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah offered little clarity regarding Cook’s future with the team and cutting him is on the table if a trade can’t be worked out.
NFL teams believe that Minnesota has shopped Cook around the league for more than a month, engaging in dialogue with multiple clubs. If the Vikings spend a Day 2 pick or an early Day 3 pick on a running back, it becomes even likelier that Cook played list last snap in Minnesota.
Cook, a Florida native, has made the Pro Bowl in four consecutive seasons and is under contract through 2025. However, his high cap hit ($14.1 million) and declining explosiveness are playing roles in the Vikings’ willingness to move him.
- Dalvin Cook stats (career): 5,993 rushing yards, 47 rushing touchdowns, 4.7 yards per carry
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If Cook is traded, the Dolphins are the heavy favorite to acquire him and he would take over as the team’s primary running back. Adding the all-purpose back to one of the best passing offenses in the NFL would likely further improve Miami’s Super Bowl odds and lead to some viewing the Dolphins as the best team in the AFC East.