New York Jets release running back Dalvin Cook ahead of Week 18

The New York Jets waived running back Dalvin Cook on Tuesday ahead of their Week 18 matchup, making him a free agent. Cook can now attempt to sign with a new team with the hopes of continuing his year into the postseason.

The former Minnesota Vikings star had four straight 1,000-yard rushing seasons before signing with New York for 2023. This year, he’s had just 214 yards on 67 carries and he hasn’t scored a touchdown. It’s been the lightest year of his career so far, including his rookie season in which he only played four games before tearing his ACL.

Cook and the Jets agreed in August to a one-year contract worth up to $8.6 million. It was the best payday of any free agent running back last offseason. A source revealed to ESPN insider Adam Schefter that Cook is now restructuring his deal to forfeit remaining guarantees. Prior to inking his deal with the Jets, he had interest from several teams including the Dolphins and Patriots.

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 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.

Cook moves on after meager season with Jets

This year for New York, Cook only exceeded 10 carries in one game. It was the season opener against the Buffalo Bills that went to overtime. He had 33 yards on 13 carries in that outing. In his last appearance, which was the loss against the Dolphins on Dec. 17, Cook had one carry for four yards and one reception for six yards.

Leading the running backs this season for the Jets has been Breece Hall. Hall has 186 carries for 816 yards with four rushing touchdowns despite coming off of injury. After the veteran RB’s release, Hall tweeted: “Luv 4.”

The Jets have had a much worse season than most expected after they landed Aaron Rodgers in the offseason. After the star QB tore his Achilles, the team went 6-10 through 17 weeks. The four-time league MVP’s decision to join New York was a major factor in Cook’s decision to move to the Big Apple as well.

The Jets wrap up the 2023 regular season slate with a 1 p.m. ET kickoff against the New England Patriots on Sunday.