Despite four consecutive 1,000-yard seasons, Dalvin Cook got released from the Minnesota Vikings, and he’s yet to find a new home. Cook is 27 years old, and there’s been plenty of interest including from the New York Jets, but he’s only taken one official visit.
Yet, Cook’s meeting with the Jets came with plenty of fanfare, and reports indicate the visit went well. But still, no deal for the top running back remaining in free agency.
In fact, some, ESPN’s Jeff Darlington, suggest Cook’s visit to the Big Apple was actually “bizarre” due to a number of reasons. Here’s what the NFL insider had to say.
“Well look, bizarre is a good word to use and honestly a sentiment that’s shared by some people that I’ve spoken to within the Jets organization as well. They’re wondering too what exactly are the motives here of Dalvin Cook. I think that we have to be very careful here, not everybody in the Jets feels that way, but there is a wonder here. Is he using the Jets for leverage? Is he trying to ramp up potential offers with other teams to get maybe a spot on those rosters? There’s still a belief that he could wind up with the Dolphins. The Dolphins, though, not necessarily being quite as eager about their desire to sign him. But right now, certainly as he walks away from the Jets without a contract, there is a wonder about his desire specifically to play for the Jets.”
Jeff Darlington on Dalvin Cook’s New York Jets visit
It’s not uncommon for players to use teams as leverage in contract negotiations while trying to get what they want. With Cook being a free agent, he really has all 32 teams he could pit against one another, but only a handful are actually interested.
Perhaps the biggest issue right now for the four-time Pro Bowl back is compensation. Not only will securing a starting role be difficult at this stage of the offseason, but teams have already formed their budget for the season. While there’s always some wiggle room, the offers Cook has received so far clearly haven’t moved the needle for the Miami native.
But training camps are underway, and Cook is likely getting the itch to play football again soon. Will Cook’s desire to get his contract situation out of the way overcome his financial motivations? As they say, money talks, but so far, Cook hasn’t liked what he’s heard.
Related: Miami Dolphins looking to sign Dalvin Cook at a discounted rate