Look away Breece Hall fantasy football owners, Dalvin Cook has found his new home with the New York Jets. It was the smart choice for Cook who now joins a loaded Jets offense with Aaron Rodgers at the helm.
There will be plenty of mouths to feed, but what are the full implications moving forward? Who will be the lead running back by the end of the season?
With plenty of options to weigh in, perhaps the Jets can be a safe space for fantasy football solitude.
Fantasy Football: Dalvin Cook, Breece Hall Outlook
BREAKING: The #Jets and former #Vikings RB Dalvin Cook have reached agreement on a 1-year deal worth a max of $8.6M, per @AdamSchefter.
Cook will pair up with Breece Hall in the Jets’ backfield. Another weapon for Aaron Rodgers. pic.twitter.com/8o59aj1NjA
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) August 14, 2023
A Lead Back To Monitor
The history for a two running back backfield has not been kind for fantasy football. It seems obvious Cook will take lead back honors heading into the beginning of the season, but health has always remained an issue.
During his time with the Minnesota Vikings, Alexander Mattison was heavily regarded as one of the best handcuffs in the league. The same should be regarded for Hall with much higher upside. Prior to his injury, Hall racked up 691 total yards of offense with five total touchdowns in seven games (two starts). In six career starts, Mattison has 693 total yards of offense and five total touchdowns. The numbers are nearly identical. Yet, in what can be a high-powered offense similar to the Vikings, it may be wise to at least hold onto Hall, especially in keeper leagues.
Respectfully, Who’s stopping Dalvin Cook and Breece Hall 😮💨 pic.twitter.com/nc45EBEzUG
— NewEraNYJets (@NewEraNYJets) August 14, 2023
Dalvin Cook’s Impact On The Rest Of The Jets Offense
Rodgers’ favorite target throughout training camp has been Garrett Wilson. Many expect Wilson to have a huge season and Cook will only make that more possible. Last season, Wilson finished as WR 21 in standard PPR leagues. Heading into the new season, Wilson currently is projected as WR8 by average draft position.
Cook brings a dynamic to the offense to open up receivers. Wilson may not get to the upper echelon of Justin Jefferson, but anything close will make fantasy owners happy. The pass catchers of the Jets will make a fine choice in later rounds for owners looking for a gem. Look for Allen Lazard and Corey Davis as mid to late-round snipes thanks to Cook.
Breece Hall managers seeing the Jets are signing Dalvin Cook 😮 pic.twitter.com/nH0unXXNY4
— ESPN Fantasy Sports (@ESPNFantasy) August 14, 2023
The New York Jets Fantasy Outlook
This is going to be fun offense to watch, even for fantasy owners. Through his career, Cook has remained a catalyst and a championship piece for many fantasy owners. Cook’s value should still remain high while Hall drops from his original projection. This is in no way saying owners should shy away from Hall. He still remains a young and exciting running back. Prepare to fire up a little no running back strategy and perhaps you can find a diamond in the rough with this Jets backfield.
Main Photo: Matt Krohn – USA Today Sports