A Former Vikings RB Could Be on the Move Again
This offseason, the Minnesota Vikings made the decision to release RB Dalvin Cook and promote Alexander Mattison to RB1 of their offense.
Following the release, Cook opted to sign with the New York Jets, inking a one-year deal worth $7 million, joining Breece Hall in the Jets’ backfield. However, things have not been going well for the former Vikings RB with his new team, and now, reports have suggested that Cook could be a trade piece at the deadline.
A Former Vikings RB Could Be on the Move Again
Dianna Russini of The Athletic was one insider who suggested the Jets could look to move the veteran. Take a peek at what Russini had to say of New York heading into the deadline, and Cook’s availability on the trade market:
“The New York Jets have made it known that pass rusher Carl Lawson is available. It’s been a slow start for him in New York, and his contract makes him an attractive trade option. Running back Dalvin Cook is also available, as his usage on this team has been decreasing.“
Dianna Russini on the New York Jets heading into the trade deadline
Indeed, Cook’s workload has been on the decline as Hall gets healthier from his ACL tear that ended his rookie season. So far this season, Cook has totaled just 39 carries for 109 yards in six games.
In fact, after totaling 16 touches in his season debut, he is yet to earn more than 11 in another game this season. He has had six or fewer in four of the past five games and has just two games with 20+ yards from scrimmage from Weeks 2-7.
Meanwhile, Hall has progressively seen his touch share increase over the past few weeks. The second-year RB has totaled 42 touches over the past two games with 287 yards from scrimmage and a pair of TDs. In total, he now has 66 carries for 426 yards and the 2 TDs to begin the year, nearly matching his production from last year prior to his injury.
The question for New York is simple. Who would be willing to take on a 28-year-old running back, and what would they be willing to pay? The likely answer is the Jets won’t get much for Cook if they do move him, but perhaps they can snag an extra late-round draft pick.
Cook has admitted that he is frustrated with his current role, which makes sense. He is used to being in an offense where he gets the ball on a regular basis. While in Minnesota, he averaged 15+ touches per game in each of his six seasons.
The Jets are currently 3-3 with a Week 8 matchup against the New York Giants looming. Then, the trade deadline arrives on Tuesday. By then, we will find out if Cook will indeed be moved to his third team in the past four months.
Josh Frey is a Class of 2020 graduate of The College of Idaho and managing editor of PurplePTSD.com. When he’s not writing about the NFL, Josh enjoys running, gaming, or rooting for the Milwaukee Brewers and Bucks. Check out his Twitter account: @Freyed_Chicken.