Dalvin Cook news is progressing rapidly. After the Minnesota Vikings could not find a trade partner for the four-time Pro Bowler, the updated Dalvin Cook news is that Minnesota will release him on Friday. Of course, this news was made public by the Vikings as a last-ditch effort to get another team to offer something for the running back.
However, if the Vikings don’t get an offer, then Cook will be able to test NFL Free Agency. He also is not in any rush to sign, as we still have several weeks until training camps around the league begin.
Let’s take a look at why the Minnesota Vikings would release Cook, then the top available Dalvin Cook free agency destinations.
Dalvin Cook News and Contract
The big reason for this Dalvin Cook news is money. The dollar amount for him continues to go up while his production goes in the opposite direction. The Dalvin Cook contract is a $14M hit against the Minnesota Vikings salary cap. If the Vikings cut Cook, then the team saves $9M. This is more than enough money to sign one of the other free agent RBs.
However, with the expected release of Cook and also shopping Danielle Hunter, are the Vikings even looking to contend in a weak NFC and an even weaker NFC North this season?
Dalvin Cook Free Agency Destinations
Miami Dolphins
The obvious landing spot that continues to be rumored in the Dalvin Cook news is the Miami Dolphins. Cook is a Miami native that broke the hearts of many from him city when he chose to play at Florida State over Miami. Now, he has a chance to return to his roots, and his family, to make up for this decision.
Additionally, Cook would join a smart running scheme in a committee, but he would be the best of the committee. The Dolphins also figure to be in the mix this season, so he has a chance to play meaningful games.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Between Florida State and Miami is Tampa, so this is a landing spot that meets in the middle. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are an offense with a few talented playmakers, but there are question marks at quarterback and offensive line. The Bucs need to run the ball well to set up play action for Baker Mayfield, and Dalvin Cook can be that early-down runner to do that.
Yes, Rachaad White is in the backfield, and he looks poised to have a breakout year. However, he may do most of his damage as a receiver, while Dalvin Cook could be a nice complement to that play style while also being a mentor to the second-year RB. Also, Tampa has just as good of a shot as anyone in the NFC South to make the playoffs.
Dallas Cowboys
Like the Buccaneers, the Dallas Cowboys are a team with a talented running back who also had a veteran leave in free agency. Dalvin Cook could sign with the Cowboys and pick up the vacant Ezekiel Elliott snaps.
Dallas, and Jerry Jones, have had an interest in Dalvin Cook in the past. Mike McCarthy has also had many opportunities to see him up close and personal. Don’t count out Dallas in the Dalvin Cook sweepstakes.
Buffalo Bills
This is a landing spot I have seen rumored for Cook pretty heavily. This is why I included it, but I don’t think it is likely. It also doesn’t make sense. Yes, James Cook (his brother) is on the Bills, but so what? Buffalo signed Damien Harris from the Patriots this offseason, and GM Brandon Beane appears to like him a lot.
Buffalo also has James Cook and Nyheim Hines in the backfield already, so adding another player doesn’t make sense, in my opinion.
