Chargers News: Superstar RB Officially Released, Could Join Former Teammates in LA
A number of top free agents on the market have already been rumored to be in talks with the Los Angeles Chargers. This includes but is not limited to the likes of DeAndre Hopkins, Ezekiel Elliott and now Dalvin Cook could very well be in the mix.
The four time All-Pro RB has been poised to be released from the Minnesota Vikings since last week and this morning, the move became official. It was reported by NFL insider Adam Schefter.
"Vikings have informed Dalvin Cook that he’s being released, per source."
(Via Adam Schefter)
New Chapter
It was clear that the Minnesota Vikings already wanted to move on from Cook despite four of best seasons being played there in the last four years. Just in 2022, he played a key role in them winning their division by posting 1,173 yards and making good on 39 catches. Cook is still elite at what he does.
However, it's been clear that Alexander Mattison is the franchise's priority at that spot and he will get the keys now while Cook all search for a new home and many signs are pointing towards him signing with the Bolts.
Number of Familiar Faces
Cook already has two former teammates on the current roster. Derwin James has been with the Chargers as their safety since 2021 and the two actually played college football together at Florida State University
Eric Kendricks also just finished a great 2022 campaign with the Minnesota Vikings as well and he opted to join the Chargers this offseason so he could help hold down their defensive line. Therefore, Cook has multiple ties in LA.
But the biggest question will ultimately be fit, especially with Austin Ekeler returning to LA for at least one more season but if one thing was clear at the end of last season, the Bolts can never have too many offensive options once the playoffs roll around.
I think Tom Telesco and the Chargers' front office should at least give this signing a shot as Cook can still be a huge contributor... his time was just up in Minnesota.