Report: Miami Dolphins came ‘very close’ to trading for Dalvin Cook in March

Dalvin Cook almost was traded to the Miami Dolphins in March, but the deal fell apart, according to Sports Illustrated.

“Minnesota and Miami came very close to a trade that would’ve made Cook a Dolphin back in March, and what’s interesting about the deal that fell apart then is how the vision the team trading for him dovetails with how the team trading him away sees him,” Albert Breer wrote.

“The idea, for Miami, was to add another big-play threat to an arsenal that already has two of the game’s most explosive receivers, in Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, in the holster. And after that one came undone, and as Minnesota contemplated a price it’d be comfortable bringing Cook back at (which would be less than the $11 million he’s due), the Vikings discussed using him more sparingly, as an explosive complement to Alexander Mattison.”

Cook and the Dolphins continue to be linked, with Miami trying to add another dynamic offensive player to a group that already includes speedy receivers like Hill and Waddle and solid running backs like Raheem Mostert and Jeff Wilson Jr.

With quarterback Tua Tagovailoa reportedly completely healthy after concussion difficulties last season, the Dolphins are firmly among the contenders in the AFC, if not the entire NFL. Adding Cook to the mix would only enhance that status.

Cook last season gained 1,173 yards rushing with eight touchdowns, but his 4.4 yards per carry average was the lowest of his career. It was his first NFL season in which he was able to play in every game.

Mattison has shown himself to be a capable back when filling in for Cook. He has 1,670 rushing yards across four NFL seasons.

Cook is a Miami native who reportedly would love to play for his hometown team if he were to leave Minnesota. He also may have an interest in joining the Buffalo Bills, who can provide him the chance to share the backfield with his brother James, something no other team can offer.

The Dolphins are clearly looking for another productive running back and earlier this offseason inquired with the Detroit Lions about D’Andre Swift, who was eventually traded to the Philadelphia Eagles.

It looks like Dalvin Cook and the Vikings have multiple paths they could take before the NFL season begins in September. It will be interesting to watch and see if the one they choose leads him to Miami and the Dolphins.