Watch: Veteran RB explains why he's interested in Jets

When host Jamie Erdahl asked Cook what separated New York from the rest of the organizations courting him, he had a simple answer: "A-Rod."

"You always want to be around a good quarterback," Cook said of his former NFC North rival. "He's a four-time MVP. Being around a guy like that you can learn a lot more and develop as a player."

If Cook does sign with the Jets, New York could have the best running back tandem in the NFL between him and second-year back Breece Hall. 

Cook is coming off of his fourth consecutive Pro Bowl season, and the first year he's played in every regular season game. While his yards/carry dipped a touch in 2022, his involvement (and effectiveness) in the passing game rose, with Cook improving his reception yards and touchdown totals from 2021. 

In addition to being a natural mentor for Hall, Cook's presence would allow Jets head coach Robert Saleh to ease Hall back into the rotation following the torn ACL that prematurely ended his rookie campaign.

When healthy, Hall and fellow-rookie wide receiver Garrett Wilson were rare bright spots in an otherwise inconsistent Jets offense. His 5.8 yards/carry would have led all NFL running backs if maintained over a full season, but he went down in Week 7 and opened training camp on the Physically Unable to Perform List. 

Having a back like Dalvin Cook would not only let the Jets be cautious while ramping Hall back up to game speed, but also can help ensure he stays fresh and healthy over the course of a season many Jets fans expect to end with a Lombardi Trophy.