11 July 2023 , 19:43
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Dalvin Cook's agent has heaped praise on the New York Jets - fuelling speculation the running back could join the NBA franchise.
Cook was released by the Minnesota Vikings last month after six seasons with the side and he has been linked with a move to the Big Apple ever since. And his representative Zac Hiller was effusive in his praise of the Jets, as well as star man Aaron Rodgers.
"They're all in. They want to win a Super Bowl. They want to bring a Super Bowl to New York City," Hiller told podcaster Paul Andrew Esden Jr.,." They brought in an incredible, first-ballot Hall of Fame quarterback [Rodgers]. Those [types of players] aren't just out there like that.
"That guy is a complete franchise city-changing player, and that's somebody that you absolutely want to play with at some point in your career, one hundred percent."
After six successful seasons, Cook's stint with the Minnesota Vikings ended in June. The Vikings initially tried to trade him, but with no success; they had to choose between releasing him to re-sign him for a reduced amount or releasing him altogether so he could join a team of his choice. There were rumours Cook had been in talks with multiple NFL teams led by the Miami Dolphins, who are also in the AFC East, before his release. However, recent reports indicate he declined the offer.
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Last March, the Vikings opted to re-sign Alexander Mattison, their backup running back, to a two-year, $7 million (£5) contract. This move served as an insurance policy, allowing the team to cut the cost of retaining Cook in half, which would have otherwise totaled $14 million (£10).
Dalvin Cook is seen prior to the NFC Wild Card playoffs (2023 Getty Images)Despite the team's decision to let him go, Cook leaves an impressive legacy, currently holding the title as the Vikings' third-highest rusher, having covered a staggering 5,993 yards during his time with the team. In addition, Cook holds the fourth spot for the most rushing touchdowns (47) and the fifth spot for the highest number of rushing attempts (1,282).
"To get the opportunity to play with somebody of that caliber, you know you can go to the Super Bowl, and that's all it is about. It's winning Super Bowls, right?" Hiller said of Aaron Rodgers.
"You play football your whole life for the opportunity to get to the highest level, and that's winning a Super Bowl. So, as far as the New York Jets, I believe they're right there, I really do. To me, it looks like a great situation," he added. "I think the Jets have something great going on."