The Dolphins have been most closely connected to Dalvin Cook, but they will face competition from within the AFC East to sign the running back. The Jets emerged as a suitor earlier this month, and they remain a contender in the Cook sweepstakes.
Both the Jets and Patriots were named as teams which have done their homework on the 27-year-old, who has remained patient in weighing his options since being released by the Vikings. New York’s ground game would add considerable experience and pedigree with a Cook signing, along with insurance with respect to current starter Breece Hall, whose rookie campaign ended with an ACL tear.
When asked about how serious the Jets are in their pursuit of Cook, his agent Zac Hiller confirmed that they represent “a great situation” as a potential landing spot. That came not long after a report from Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk indicated the Jets are “gaining momentum” with respect to their Cook signing efforts, via Paul Esden of The Score 1260.
New York currently has $23.1M in cap space, a figure which would seem to comfortably allow for a Cook signing. However, adjustments to quarterback Aaron Rodgers‘ contract, along with a sizeable extension for defensive tackle Quinnen Williams and a potential pay cut for wideout Corey Davis remain on the financial to-do list for the team. When first reported, their interest was thus believed to be cursory, with a drop in Cook’s asking price likely necessary to make a deal possible.
The four-time Pro Bowler is not willing to sign with his hometown Dolphins at the terms currently being offered, however, so a bidding war may be necessary for the Jets to acquire him. Cook has no need to hurry in his decision-making process with time still remaining until training camps open later this month. By that point, New York may have a clearer picture of their cap situation and therefore their ability to afford him. At this point, though, the Jets are a team to watch regarding what would be another sizeable addition to their offense.
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