The NFL 2023 offseason is officially in full swing, and teams all over the league have started to make major changes to their rosters. The Minnesota Vikings have already parted ways with some of their veteran stars, and running back Dalvin Cook could soon be on his way out as well.
According to a recent report, the Miami Dolphins could be suitors for Cook if the Vikings end up making him available via trade.
“The Minnesota Vikings, who are reportedly expected to cut multiple highly paid players, have fielded at least one trade offer for four-time Pro Bowl running back Dalvin Cook, according to Darren Wolfson of the ABC affiliate in Minneapolis,” Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald wrote. “Cook, a Miami Central High standout, could emerge as an option if Minnesota decides to deal him.
“Any trade for Cook would come with an $11 million cap hit for the team acquiring him, but that could be reduced significantly by converting his $10.4 million base salary mostly to a signing bonus; $2 million of that salary becomes guaranteed March 18.
“NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero said he expects Cook to remain with the Vikings.”
The Vikings have already parted ways with players such as Eric Kendricks, Adam Thielen and Cameron Dantzler. It’s a clear indication that the team is looking to get some fresh faces on the roster after an exciting 2022 season.
It is certainly worth noting that it remains unclear if the Vikings plan to ship Cook off. After all, he is still just 27 years old and enjoyed a strong season in 2022. He recorded 1,173 yards and eight touchdowns on the ground in 2022. Perhaps most importantly, he recorded a full season of 17 games played for the first time in his career.
Prior to 2022, he had never played in more than 14 games in a regular season.
If the Dolphins were to add him, they’d definitely be getting a dynamic backfield weapon who has also proven the ability to contribute to the passing game. Last season, Cook caught 39 balls for 295 yards and two scores.
The Dolphins definitely appear to be in the market for a stud running back. They are considered one of the most likely destinations for superstar running back Derrick Henry if the Tennessee Titans end up moving him.
Still, it is not yet known what the Dolphins would have to give up for either Henry or Cook. It stands to reason that draft capital would play a large role, and the Dolphins are pretty thin on that for this upcoming draft.
The Dolphins have just five picks in the upcoming draft, and they have no first-round picks. Only time will if that gets in their way of adding yet another weapon to their already potent offense.
As for the Vikings, it’s worth keeping on an eye on any further moves they make in the coming days. At the moment, it seems like the only player who’s future with the team is totally secure is superstar receiver Justin Jefferson.
