Free agent RB Dalvin Cook signs with New York Jets

Free agent running back Dalvin Cook has signed a contract with the New York Jets. According to Tom Pelissero, Cook and the Jets have agreed to a one-year contract worth up to $8.6 million.

Cook was released by the Minnesota Vikings in June after six seasons with the team. He made the Pro Bowl each of the past four seasons with the franchise.

During that span, Cook has rushed for over 1,000 each season. He has also added at least 224 receiving yards each season.

His best year came in 2020 when he carried the ball 312 times for 1,557 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns. After the season, he was ranked 20th in NFL Network’s NFL Top 100 Players of 2021 ranking.

Cook appeared on Good Morning Football on the NFL Network previously to discuss his then-upcoming visit to New York. The 27-year-old running back admitted he thought the chances were good he would ink a deal with the franchise.

“I think they’re pretty high, man,” Cook said. “I think [the Jets] are… a team that was building something special. And I want to be a part of something special, you know, as a player. And I want to add to just whatever they got going on. So I think the possibility is high right now and… of getting things done.”

Dalvin Cook joining Aaron Rodgers, Breece Hall in the Jets backfield

The former Florida State star joins Breece Hall in the New York running back room. Hall, a two-time All-American at Iowa State, was a breakout star as a rookie for the Jets last season.

He rushed for 463 yards in seven games for New York before tearing his ACL. The injury has kept him out of the start of training camp and he might not be ready for the start of the season.

Expectations are high for the Jets with Aaron Rodgers leading the team and many key players from last season’s surprising 7-10 finish coming back to the team.

But Rodgers is a difference maker. Cook said the potential to play with his former NFC North foe is a major draw to joining the Jets.

“A lot, man,” Cook said. “Just speaking of Aaron Rodgers, everyone knows what you’re getting with Aaron Rodgers. Going to play with a guy like that, the caliber of quarterback he is, that speaks for itself. I’ve been on the other side of that for the last six years. Just knowing the type of player he is, I’m excited about it.”