Dalvin Cook’s underwhelming season with the New York Jets concluded prematurely on Tuesday, as the four-time Pro Bowl running back was released with one game left, as confirmed by his agency.
The decision to part ways was reached through mutual agreement, allowing Cook the opportunity to join a playoff-bound team. Additionally, he restructured his contract, surrendering remaining guarantees, as reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Cook’s playing time had steadily decreased in recent weeks, reaching a low point on Thursday night in Cleveland, where he remained in uniform but didn’t take a single snap in the Jets’ 37-20 loss to the Browns—a first in his career.
The following day, Coach Robert Saleh commended Cook for maintaining professionalism during a challenging season, stating, “You know when a player is hurting, and I know he’s hurting. But his story is not over.”
Subject to a 24-hour waiver period, Cook, 28, concluded the season with only 67 carries for 214 yards in 15 games, averaging 3.2 yards—a notable dip from his career average. His offensive snaps also dwindled to 202, marking his lowest since his injury-shortened rookie year with the Minnesota Vikings in 2017.
Expressing his frustration on December 3, Cook emphasized the desire to be productive despite the challenges. He affirmed his decision to join the Jets and expressed disinterest in seeking a release.
Cook’s free-agent signing with the Jets in August had been a notable summer story, with the one-year, $7 million deal including $5.8 million in guarantees. He had chosen the Jets, anticipating the opportunity to play with quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who unfortunately suffered a season-ending Achilles tear early in the season.
Initially perceived as the missing piece for a potential Super Bowl run, Cook’s role changed rapidly with the emergence of Breece Hall, who outperformed expectations. The original plan to have Cook take the lead in carries shifted, limiting his playing time throughout the season.
In the latter weeks, with the Jets out of playoff contention, rookie Israel Abanikanda became Hall’s backup, further sidelining Cook despite his impressive career stats—6,207 yards and 47 rushing touchdowns in seven seasons, six with the Vikings. In a December 3 interview, Cook spoke about his time with the Jets in the past tense, expressing hope for a better opportunity elsewhere.
