Does Dalvin Cook Make Sense for Browns?
With the official release from the Minnesota Vikings, running back Dalvin Cook is the latest name to join a talented field of available free agents. There's a narrow path for Cook to join the Cleveland Browns, but it's at least worth exploring.
Cook has excelled as a zone runner with the Vikings. He's coming off a solid season with 1,174 yards rushing, averaging 4.4 yards per carry. Certainly valuable in a world where he potentially joins Nick Chubb in the backfield, but what stands out is how he could impact the passing game.
In his best season as a receiver, 2019, Cook had 519 yards receiving on 53 receptions. Kevin Stefanski was his offensive coordinator that season, one of two seasons he was named an All-Pro. In the past three years, his production hasn't been as high but he still makes an impact in that area of the game, averaging a little under 300 yards per season. By contrast, Chubb has only had over 200 yards receiving in a season twice.
With so many teams already pretty well established with how they're allocating their money this season, Cook might not be able to find the contract he wants. And like with DeAndre Hopkins, money is the critical component. If there's a market for Cook and he's determined to maximize his earning power, which is certainly his right, he's not going to end up in Cleveland.
Likewise, Cook has every reason to believe he can join a team and become their feature running back. He simply not be interested in joining the Browns to be Chubb's sidekick.
Nevertheless, the possibility of reuniting with Stefanski, playing with Deshaun Watson and being part of a two-headed monster with Chubb could be an attractive option. Additionally, Za'Darius Smith and Dalvin Tomlinson who were with the Vikings last year are in Cleveland.
If Cook doesn't love his market because he's entering free agency so late, he might want to find a great situation to allow him to re-enter the market next year and cash in with what might be his last premium contract of his career. The Browns could provide him a great opportunity to shine while potentially contending.
The Browns like what they're seeing from Jerome Ford, but their depth at that position is relatively thin. It's anyone's guess who is the favorite to be the third back on the team at this point. If Chubb were to miss time, the Browns could be in real trouble. Cook represents an opportunity to make the position one of the in the league.
Cook does have some other good potential options. The Buffalo Bills would have to move some money around, but he could join his little brother James in that backfield that has been crying out for a feature back to be a factor. The Miami Dolphins have been a popular landing spot for Cook, joining a backfield full of speed. The Dallas Cowboys continue to be linked to a possible reunion with Ezekiel Elliott, but Cook could provide them a major boost alongside Tony Pollard.
The chances of Dalvin Cook joining the Browns are slim, but there's enough there to say it can't be ruled out entirely.
