A front-runner has emerged for Dalvin Cook if released

Dalvin Cook. Matt Krohn-USA TODAY Sports

A front-runner has emerged for Dalvin Cook if Vikings release him

By Michael Gallagher | Last updated 6/6/23

Most reports seem to indicate that Dalvin Cook’s time with the Minnesota Vikings is coming to an end.

And while Cook would likely have multiple suitors, one team is likely to aggressively pursue the 27-year-old running back should he become available, according to the Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson.

“It’s certainly a real possibility if he’s cut by Minnesota,” Jackson wrote. “There would be interest on both sides. … If they ultimately do release him, I would expect a Dolphins pursuit — but likely not at a salary close to the $10.4M he’s due to make this season. … The Dolphins, eventually, likely will get their chance at Cook. The question is how high they’re willing to go financially, and whether another team will make it more of a priority.”

If Dalvin Cook becomes a Dolphin, this is the best WR/WR/RB trio in NFL.

Name a better one. pic.twitter.com/xyd19wEyAv
— Kyle Brandt (@KyleBrandt) June 5, 2023

This isn’t the first time Cook has been linked to the Dolphins. SI.com’s Albert Breer reported on Monday that Miami nearly swung a deal for Cook in March but the deal never materialized.

“The idea, for Miami, was to add another big-play threat to an arsenal that already has two of the game’s most explosive receivers, in Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, in the holster,” Breer said.

Cook has a $10.4M base salary and a $14.1M cap hit. If the Vikings release him, they’ll save $9M with $5.1M in dead money. However, if they trade him, they’ll save $11M with just $3.1M in dead money.

Jackson points out there’s still a possibility Minnesota convinces Cook to take a pay cut to stick around or the team holds onto the former second-round pick through training camp in case a team loses its starting running back to injury.

Cook is the only running back to rush for 1,100 or more yards each of the last four seasons. He made the Pro Bowl every one of those years. The Florida State alum has rushed for 5,993 yards and 47 touchdowns with 221 receptions, 1,794 yards and five touchdowns through the air.

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