Former FSU Football Star Speaks On NFL RB Market: 'We Got To Come Up With Something'

The NFL running back market has been on a rapid decline. Players like Dalvin Cook, Florida State's all-time rushing leader, are getting cut or being traded after years of success.

For example, Cook is coming off four straight Pro Bowl selections, but the Minnesota Vikings cut him after being unable to find a trade partner. They wanted to offload his salary and play their less talented running back on a cheaper deal to maximize their ability to compete for a Super Bowl.

On one hand, it makes sense. Teams are going to do whatever is in their best interests to bring home a Lombardi Trophy, and that directly impacts the running back market.

Some of the NFL's top running backs joined a call over Zoom hosted by Los Angeles Chargers star running back Austin Ekeler. Cook, who remains a free agent, was on the call. He called into The Rich Eisen Show and broke down how it went.

"We kind of came up with [the call] last week when we started a group chat," Cook said. "... It's kind of sad how people think about the position."

Cook is the most recent example of running backs getting cut. The former Seminole had finally found a way to stay healthy and was providing good services for his team, yet the contract was too much for the Vikings.

"I feel the frustration of every running back around the league," Cook said. "That Zoom call and us voicing our opinions in that group chat is kind of needed right now."

Players like Tony Pollard of the Dallas Cowboys are struggling to agree to terms on a contract extension, and he provides great offensive play for his team. New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley is in the same position after willing his team to the playoffs.

"We're trying to figure out where we can go without hurting anyone's pockets," Cook said of a solution. "We obviously want to play football and help someone win, but everyone has their family to take care of. ... We got to come up with something. We're active every day in that chat."

The running back market has directly impacted Cook and can be used as an example when looking at the current situation and potential fixes for the position.

Stick with NoleGameday for more coverage of Florida State football throughout the offseason.

Follow NoleGameday on Twitter and Facebook