The Minnesota Vikings are expected to part ways with running back Dalvin Cook in the coming weeks. It is unknown if he will be traded or released, just that his time is coming to an end. This is because of the Vikings’ financial situation. If they decide to cut him, they would save $9 million, and a potential trade would save them $11 million. Cook is entering the third year of his five-year/$63 million deal.
Potential options for Cook
It was reported that the Vikings and Dolphins were making progress on a trade, but it ultimately fell through. Other teams that have been in the conversation are the New York Jets, Dallas Cowboys, and the Denver Broncos.
Out of this list, the Broncos are the only ones who are not expected to finalize a trade for the Pro Bowl running back. It just doesn’t make sense with their lack of future draft capital. They are in a position to add more picks, not subtract. Although if Cook is released, the Broncos are slated to show interest.
This does make sense as there is a past connection between general manager George Paton and Dalvin Cook in Minnesota. Paton selected him in the second round of the 2017 NFL draft.
Is Cook the right fit?
If the price is right, yes Cook is a perfect fit. There is a chance that Cook takes a pay cut in order to join Sean Payton and Russell Wilson. It would most likely be a one-year deal, as Denver isn’t in a position to give out a long-term contract.
Even though Javonte Williams has been progressing and is expected to be ready for week one, Cook would provide more stability in the position. Williams will be limited coming off an injury, and we’ve seen what Payton can do with a star running back.
The addition of Cook is still unrealistic, as everything would have to go in Denver’s favor in order for them to bring him in. If they are unable to land him, there are still options on the market, such as Ezekiel Elliott, Kareem Hunt, and Leonard Fournette.
The Broncos have cut multiple running backs from the roster, prioritizing other positions more. Denver has created additional cap space, and still lacks depth in the backfield, so a signing could be on the horizon.
