Jets RB Dalvin Cook was eyeing two contenders ahead of trade deadline

The 4-3 New York Jets held onto frustrated veteran running back Dalvin Cook through Tuesday's trade deadline even though Cook apparently had a couple of destinations in mind. 

For a piece published Wednesday, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN reported that "Cook was intrigued by potentially playing for" either the 6-2 Baltimore Ravens or the 5-2 Dallas Cowboys. 

"Neither team ever really entertained the perceived positional need at the deadline," Fowler continued. "Cook just wants to play, and maybe New York can still help him with that."

Cook openly spoke with reporters last week about his "frustrating" lack of touches as he has tallied 114 rushing yards on just 41 carries with the Jets. Gang Green head coach Robert Saleh insisted before Sunday's overtime win over the New York Giants that the four-time Pro Bowl selection was "all in" regarding his dedication to helping the Jets win, and Fowler added that "there wasn't any indication as of Tuesday that Cook was asking for a release." 

Cook signed a one-year contract reportedly worth up to $8.6M to join the Jets in August.

Cook and defensive end Carl Lawson remained with the Jets through Tuesday evening after both were subjects of trade rumors. General manager Joe Douglas addressed the pair while speaking with reporters after the deadline passed. 

"Those guys are great teammates and players," Douglas said, according to Randy Lange of the Jets' website. "I have a feeling we're going to need those guys a lot down the stretch. They're assets to this team and we're glad they're here." 

The Jets theoretically need all the help on offense they can get as quarterback Zach Wilson routinely leaves much to be desired with his performances this fall. If Cook stays unhappy through the upcoming "Monday Night Football" home game against the 3-4 Los Angeles Chargers, though, Douglas could decide a divorce is best for everyone involved. 

As of Wednesday afternoon, OddsChecker listed the Jets as three-point underdogs versus the Chargers.