According to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald, the chances of the Miami Dolphins acquiring running back Dalvin Cook have likely diminished.
They talked about trade and it didn't work out. Can never be ruled out, but they drafted Achane, so no longer as much of a need obviously
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) April 29, 2023
Rumors of the Dolphins’ apparent interest in Cook have been bubbling recently. As late as this week, there was buzz about Miami potentially making a push for the veteran during the draft.
There was also recent talk concerning the possibility of the Dolphins signing Cook if the Minnesota Vikings chose to release the running back because of salary-cap considerations. The Vikings still have time to take that route, though it appears that the Dolphins are moving forward after their selection of running back Devon Achane on Friday.
Cook, who grew up in Miami, has delivered impressive numbers during his time with the Vikings. In six seasons, he’s rushed for a total of 5,993 yards and run for 47 touchdowns, while also collecting 221 receptions.
Miami’s drafting of Achane comes as no surprise to close observers of the Dolphins. That’s because a report earlier this week indicated that the team had been closely keeping tabs on the running back out of Texas A&M University.
In his three years at the school, Achane rushed for 2,376 yards on 369 carries, good for 6.4 yards per attempt. He also rushed for 21 touchdowns.
Achane’s receiving talents look somewhat modest when compared to Cook’s. However, he did finish his collegiate career with 65 pass catches for 554 yards and five touchdowns.
Even though Achane is just 5-foot-9, he brings blazing speed to the field after his performance at the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine earlier this offseason. There, he ran the 40-yard dash in just 4.32 seconds after previously showing an explosive running style with the Aggies.
As one of the Dolphins’ top picks in this year’s draft, he’s likely to get plenty of opportunities to make his mark with the team.
The Dolphins have struggled in recent years to develop a strong running game, with the team seeking to have a more balanced offense going forward.
Last season, the receiving duo of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle became one of the most dangerous one-two punches in the NFL. The Dolphins are surely hoping that Achane can take the focus of opponents off that pair to make the duo even more deadly.
