New York Jets Waive Veteran Running Back Dalvin Cook Ahead of Season Finale
ICARO Media Group
In a surprising move, the New York Jets have decided to part ways with veteran running back Dalvin Cook. Cook's agents informed ESPN's Adam Schefter that the Jets were waiving the player just before their season finale against the New England Patriots.
According to Schefter, Cook will not receive the remaining guaranteed money in his contract. This sudden decision by the Jets brings an end to Cook's brief stint with the team.
During his time with the Jets, Cook's performance was far from impressive. In 15 games, he only managed to accumulate 214 rushing yards, making it his career-low. Additionally, he lost two fumbles and failed to score any touchdowns on 67 carries. These statistics were worse than what he achieved in his rookie season in 2017, where he played just four games.
Cook's contributions in the passing game were equally subpar, with only 15 receptions for 78 yards. These numbers represent the second-lowest and lowest totals of his seven-year career respectively. It seems his time with the Jets was marked by a lack of production, which ultimately led to his departure.
After being released by the Minnesota Vikings earlier this year, Cook signed a one-year, $7 million deal with the Jets on August 14. The decision to join the team was partially influenced by the presence of quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Cook had expressed his belief that the Jets had the best one-two punch in the NFL, with himself as the backup to Breece Hall, the team's clear number one running back.
However, just two months into the season, Cook's frustration with his lack of playing time became apparent. He discussed the possibility of a trade with his agent and Jets general manager Joe Douglas, but no resolution was reached.
With his release from the Jets, Cook will now enter waivers. If he goes unclaimed, he will become an unrestricted free agent. Given Cook's experience and the potential boost he can provide to a playoff team in need of a running game enhancement, there may be opportunities for him to join a new team as they head into the postseason.
As the Jets look forward to their final game of the season, the decision to waive Cook highlights the team's dissatisfaction with his performance. It remains to be seen how this move will affect the Jets' plans moving forward and what opportunities will arise for Cook in the near future.