The NFL world was abuzz on Monday when news broke that the New York Jets had signed running back Dalvin Cook to a four-year, $63 million deal. Cook, who was a free agent after spending his first four seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, is now the highest-paid running back in the league.
Cook is coming off a career year in 2020, where he rushed for 1,557 yards and 16 touchdowns, both career highs. He also added another 519 yards and one touchdown through the air. Cook was a Pro Bowl selection for the second time in his career and was named a second-team All-Pro.
The Jets are hoping that Cook can help turn around a struggling offense. The team finished last in the league in rushing yards last season and had the second-fewest rushing touchdowns. With Cook in the backfield, the Jets should be able to improve their running game significantly.
Cook will be joining an offense that includes quarterback Sam Darnold and wide receiver Jamison Crowder. The Jets also have a young and talented offensive line that should be able to open up holes for Cook to run through.
The signing of Cook is a big step forward for the Jets, who have been searching for a franchise running back since the days of Curtis Martin. Cook has shown that he can be a workhorse back and should be able to help the Jets get back to their winning ways.
It will be interesting to see how Cook performs in New York and if he can help the Jets become a playoff contender. With Cook in the backfield, the Jets should have one of the best rushing attacks in the league and could be a force to be reckoned with in 2021.