Grading ESPN's hypothetical Jets-Ravens Dalvin Cook trade

The New York Jets are considering trading running back Dalvin Cook to the Baltimore Ravens, according to ESPN. The proposed trade would involve the Jets receiving a 2025 fifth-round pick and a 2025 fourth-round pick in exchange for Cook. The move would benefit both teams, with the Ravens gaining a Pro Bowl back and the Jets saving money and giving more opportunities to their younger players.

As the 2023 NFL trade deadline approaches, teams are preparing to make moves and media outlets are proposing hypothetical deals. In a column by Bill Barnwell, one of the proposed moves is the New York Jets trading running back Dalvin Cook to the Baltimore Ravens. Let's evaluate this potential trade.

Before we discuss the deal, let's set the scene. Cook was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft and played six seasons with the team. He had impressive numbers, accumulating 5,993 rushing yards, 1,840 receiving yards, and 52 total touchdowns. Cook earned four Pro Bowl appearances during his time with the Vikings.

After being released by the Vikings, Cook considered several teams, including the Jets and the Miami Dolphins. Ultimately, he signed a one-year, $7 million contract with the Jets. However, Cook has struggled to perform well with the team, as Breece Hall has taken over the backfield after recovering from an ACL injury. Additionally, the Jets' season took a turn for the worse when quarterback Aaron Rodgers suffered an Achilles injury.

Due to these factors, Cook is now available for trade at the deadline, and Barnwell believes a move to the Ravens would be beneficial. The proposed trade would involve the Jets receiving a 2025 fifth-round pick and a 2025 fourth-round pick in exchange for Cook.

It may seem surprising, but Cook's trade value is currently negative. The Jets owe him a substantial roster bonus, and his performance in the team's offense led by Zach Wilson has been subpar. Cook has only averaged 2.7 yards per carry this season and has the second-worst rush yards over expectation among running backs with at least 30 carries. With his diminishing role on a struggling team, there doesn't seem to be a place for Cook on the Jets' roster.

To save money and give more opportunities to young running back Israel Abanikanda, the Jets would also agree to a pick swap, moving back a round in the 2025 NFL Draft.

While it may be seen as a blunder to give up draft capital for a player they recently signed, the Jets have faced significant changes this season. Admitting defeat and moving on from Cook could be a reasonable option, especially if he is unhappy with his current role. This trade would also benefit the team financially.

Overall, the Jets' grade for this trade is a C-. It's not a great outcome, but the team is making a decision in the best interest of the organization.

On the other hand, if the Ravens were offered this trade, they should accept it without hesitation. Acquiring a Pro Bowl running back like Cook would be a low-risk, high-reward move for a team with Super Bowl aspirations.

The Ravens' offense has been improving, and Cook could fill the void at the running back position. With J.K. Dobbins out for the season and Justice Hill dealing with an injury, the Ravens have relied on veterans Kenyan Drake and Melvin Gordon III with limited success.

Adding Cook to their roster would give the Ravens one of the best offenses in the league. Additionally, they would move up one spot in the 2025 draft, which aligns with their strategic approach to building a strong team.

In conclusion, the proposed Jets-Ravens trade involving Dalvin Cook has its pros and cons. The Jets would be giving up draft capital to part ways with a player who hasn't performed well, while the Ravens would gain a talented running back and improve their offense. Both teams have their reasons for considering this trade, and it will be interesting to see if it comes to fruition before the trade deadline.

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