New York Jets Sign Dalvin Cook to One-Year Deal
The New York Jets have made a significant addition to their backfield by signing free agent running back Dalvin Cook to a one-year deal worth up to $8.6 million. The news was confirmed by a source close to the situation, who spoke to ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Monday night.
Cook, who recently turned 28, was released by the Minnesota Vikings on June 8 after four consecutive Pro Bowl seasons. The Jets were quick to express their interest in the talented running back, and Cook visited their facility last month for a day-long meeting.
The signing of Cook comes after veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers volunteered to take a $35 million pay cut, creating financial flexibility for the Jets to pursue big-ticket players. With the addition of Cook, Rodgers now has another proven playmaker to work with.
The Jets were keen to bolster their backfield, especially with their No. 1 running back Breece Hall returning from ACL surgery. While they remain optimistic about Hall’s availability for Week 1, they wanted to ensure they had an accomplished runner on the roster. Coach Robert Saleh expressed his interest in Cook, stating, “Obviously, you don’t want to say no to a great player.”
The Jets currently have backups Zonovan Knight and Michael Carter, but their production last season was underwhelming, with both players averaging just 3.5 yards per rush. The addition of Cook brings much-needed experience and talent to the running back position. The Jets also have rookie Israel Abanikanda, a fifth-round pick from Pitt, on their roster.
However, Cook’s arrival in New York will be delayed as he is still recovering from shoulder surgery he underwent in February. He is expected to be at least a week away from being able to practice. Additionally, Cook is also expecting to become a first-time father soon, which will further delay his arrival.
Cook’s signing is another significant move for the Jets, who have been actively revamping their offense this offseason. In addition to trading for Rodgers, they have also signed wide receivers Allen Lazard and Mecole Hardman and made changes to their coaching staff.
On the field, Cook brings a wealth of talent and production to the Jets. Since 2019, he has averaged 111 scrimmage yards per game, second only to the Tennessee Titans’ Derrick Henry. Cook’s one-cut running style is expected to fit well in the Jets’ outside zone running scheme. The Jets have not had a 1,000-yard rusher since 2015, and Cook’s four consecutive 1,000-yard seasons make him a valuable addition to the team.
While Cook’s talent is undeniable, there are some question marks surrounding his health and off-field issues. He has battled chronic shoulder injuries since college and underwent surgery earlier this year. Despite playing every game last season, Cook’s per-carry average was a career-low 4.4. He also led the NFL in carries for a loss or no gain.
Off the field, Cook has faced legal issues, with a former girlfriend filing a lawsuit against him in 2021, alleging physical and emotional abuse. Cook responded by filing a defamation suit against her. Both cases are still pending.
Despite these concerns, Coach Saleh spoke highly of Cook after their meeting, describing him as “a very good young man” who knows what he wants. The Jets are hopeful that Cook’s talent and experience will outweigh any potential risks.
With the addition of Dalvin Cook, the New York Jets have taken a significant step towards strengthening their backfield and providing support for quarterback Aaron Rodgers. As the team continues to make moves in the offseason, fans are eagerly anticipating the start of the 2023 NFL season to see how these acquisitions will impact their performance on the field.