Dalvin Cook‘s 2023 campaign didn’t go as planned, with the former Pro Bowler struggling to carve out a role in the Jets offense. As a result, it’s been relatively quiet for the veteran free agent, but that doesn’t mean the 28-year-old is treating this offseason any differently.
In a conversation with Aaron Wilson of KPRC2 in Houston, Cook said he’s feeling great and is confident he can still be a productive offensive weapon. In fact, he also believes his limited run in New York will only benefit him in 2024.
“I’ve got it all,” Cook said. “The tools are still here. I didn’t really get no reps last year. So, the legs are fresh, so the resume speaks for itself. I’m still Dalvin Cook. I’m still that guy. For me, I don’t like to toot my own horn. I just like to go out there, put my helmet on and line up on the grass.”
Cook’s six-year stint in Minnesota ended with his release last offseason. Despite topping 1,300 yards from scrimmage each season between 2019 and 2022, it took the veteran until mid-August to catch on with the Jets, where he was expected to form a two-headed monster in the backfield with Breece Hall.
Aaron Rodgers‘ season-ending injury quickly changed things, with the offense failing to find consistency throughout the 2023 campaign. As a result, the team leaned heavily on Hall, pushing Cook to a true backup role. The running back only started one of his 15 appearances for the Jets, finishing with 292 yards from scrimmage and zero touchdowns.
Cook and the Jets parted ways late in the season, and he caught on with the Ravens for the postseason. He garnered eight touches in his one playoff appearance, finishing with 23 yards.
While there’s been plenty of movement in this year’s RB free agency class, Cook hasn’t attracted a whole lot of interest. There were rumors that the running back was interested in joining the Cowboys, but it was uncertain if that interest was reciprocated by the organization. Regardless of where he ends up, Cook is confident that he’ll be able to contribute to any running backs room.
“Yeah, you always have to be prepared for the opportunity,” Cook said. “For me, I’m a veteran in the league. I know what it takes to be successful in this league. I know who Dalvin Cook is and I know how I want to perform and what I want to do. Like you said, stay ready so you ain’t got to get ready.”
I don’t like to toot my own horn.
But
“The legs are fresh, so the resume speaks for itself. I’m still Dalvin Cook. I’m still that guy. I’m a veteran in the league. I know what it takes to be successful in this league. I know who Dalvin Cook is.”
So humble its inspiring.
Well, it is important to k own who you are
Come on, it was the 2023 Jets for the love of God. From the GM, front office, coaching staff, and players….. Who had a stealer year after the 4 offensive play?
Cowboys! Zimmer needs him!
Dalvin Cook would be an interesting gamble for the Buccaneers
Best fits for him in my opinion are Panthers or Giants. With Barkley gone he can split the rock with Singletary without worrying about wear and tear. Panthers run game was unimpressive last year sanders didn’t do anything.
Cowboys are easily the best fit especially paired with a rookie.
Raiders, Jags, Colts, Browns
He’ll find a home but his days as a bellcow are long over
It is hard to believe that Cook’s contribution level went from a top 10 running back to a guy that can’t even start in just one year. Even given the fact that this guy has been in decline since he turned 26 last year’s fall-off was shocking.
The Cowboys are going to need someone to run the ball this year, but I don’t think this is the guy…
How much grass does Dalvin smoke prior to lining up on it? He seems to be almost as delusional as Mike Tyson. He might be waiting as long as Adrian Peterson for that right opportunity to present itself.
I think it’ll be training camp or preseason before he finds a new team. It’s gonna take somebody having a season ending injury for him to get signed, so my money is on Seattle.