Dalvin Cook has reportedly turned down a contract offer from the Miami Dolphins. The 27-year-old was set to make a little over $10 million with the Minnesota Vikings before being cut from the team at the beginning of June. But with the looming July 17th deadline for franchise-tagged players to resign, how could this affect the potential dollar amount for Cook?
From all accounts, Cook is looking for something in the range of ten million. He was set to make it if the Vikings did not cut him. So his turning down the offer from Miami, which still sits on the table if he so chooses to take it, shows it is not in the ballpark Cook would have liked to see. But this could be a rouse from his camp as the running back market could be reset this week, which could benefit him.
Barkley and Jacobs July 17th Deadlines
Saquon Barkley and Josh Jacobs have been franchise-tagged for the upcoming season. Barkley has been more outspoken about his deal and has stated he wants a deal in place. On the other hand, Jacobs had his 2023 option denied by the Raiders. He followed that up by leading the NFL in rushing the following season. With them set to make just over ten million each this upcoming year if they sign their current tenders, it could reset the running back market if they get new deals done.
Both Barkley and Jacobs will have an increase of two million dollars. That is if they do not get deals done and are franchise tagged again. The CBA allows for that but at an increase of 120% of the previous one-year deal. But with no security in it for the player, if they get hurt, then they do not get paid. It makes no sense for them to play under that, which shows how productive both of them are. Fair market deals could be in play for them. This would only mean an increase of two to three million. So they would sign an extension for $13 million for however many years and then have the security to move forward. But what would this mean from Dalvin Cook’s perspective?
Cook Could Possibly Cash In On Their Coat Tails
Cook could be the one who could cash in here. He is slightly older than Barkley and Jacobs; he is just as productive. Dalvin Cook had 1468 all-purpose yards last season. He was in the top five of the majority of all running back stats last year, and to be quite frank; he has been since he entered the league. So Cook’s value is more than what his to-be contract is. So by Cook “holding out” just another week, he can use this as possible leverage to make more for himself this year and could cash in on a multi-year deal. He could also hold out until training camp to ensure that other teams outside of Miami would offer him what he wants.
AFC East Very Interested In Dalvin Cook
There have been reports of the New York Jets and New England Patriots having interest in Dalvin Cook. It would make sense because that would make you better and your division opponent weaker. ESPN’s Hannah Storm called it “a bit of an arms race” concerning everyone in that division trying to improve. If teams are doing their homework on Cook, he still has some tread on the tires, and he would be a perfect compliment to the Jets and Patriots. With Breece Hall returning from his ACL injury last year, Cook would be a perfect compliment. Same thing with the Patriots. Their depth at running back is low, and he would be a great compliment to Rhamondre Stevenson.
In the long run, Dalvin Cook will be on an NFL roster this fall. He will be a difference-maker on whatever team he signs with. The only thing now is to wait and see what happens over the coming weeks.
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