Chargers News: Star RB Set to be Released, Could Fit Nicely with LA
The Los Angeles Chargers were able to get over their biggest hump of the 2023 offseason and come to an agreement with Austin Ekeler. He did not receive the huge extension that he fought so hard for but he has been given the opportunity to earn an extra $2 million if he performs like he usually does.
Throw in a healthy Justin Herbert, an elite mix of WR's, and Kellen Moore leading the way as their new offensive coordinator and touchdowns should be the least of LA's worries in the new season. However, the Bolts also learned that when everything goes South in the playoffs, you need more than one option to run the ball and experienced options at that.
Well, the Chargers could look to add another big name at the RB position very soon now that it's being reported that Dalvin Cook is reportedly set to be released from the Minnesota Vikings in the next few days.
"#Vikings RB Dalvin Cook reportedly could be a June 1st cut"
We all saw just how much Ekeler thrived as a passing option in the 2022 season as he led all players in his position at that category. Bringing in Cook on a smaller contract now that he'll likely get released could give their 27-year-old star the opportunity to do just that.
Cook is still a very serviceable option at RB and is the same age as Ekeler. Last season, he played a key role in the Vikings going 13-4 as he recorded 1,173 yards with eight touchdowns.
Cook also suited up with the Chargers' star safety Derwin James in college so there is already a relationship there. James referred to him as the best RB in the NFL a few seasons ago and also detailed them as being very close.
"To me, he's the best running back in the NFL so he's a challenge,' said James. "We're real good friends, we spent two years together in college and spent a lot of time together. Just playing Madden and NCAA so we're real good friends."
(Via Fernando Ramirez)
We'll see how Tom Telesco approaches this opportunity!
