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One of the main topics of discussion this offseason is that running backs just aren't getting paid enough. 

Austin Ekeler has had some discussions about his pay with the Chargers, Saquon Barkley has done the same with the Giants, and now a new face on the free agent market has something to say about the pay gap between quarterbacks and running backs.

Dalvin Cook, who was released by the Vikings earlier this month, wants "far closer" to his $10.4 million he was supposed to make this year in Minnesota.

Let's take a look at some pros and cons if the Chargers decide to make a push at signing Dalvin Cook

Pros

  • It would be a lethal 1-2 punch between him and Austin Ekeler, much like what Green Bay has with Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon
  • It would prove to Ekeler that the team is willing to pay a running back a pretty large amount of money, so Ekeler could be the next in line
  • Publicity for the Chargers making a big name move in free agency, which could generate more ticket sales

Cons

  • A Justin Herbert contract extension might not get done this offseason, and it might have to wait until next year
  • It might annoy Ekeler that the team decided to go out and sign a big name running back instead of just signing him to a bigger deal
  • It's not really a "need" for the Chargers right now. They have a very serviceable running back in Austin Ekeler.