Chad Johnson offers solution to fix the Dolphins run game

The Vikings and Cook have had a tense relationship since the season ended. Team insider Darren Wolfson reported in January that Minnesota would likely take a third-round pick for Cook, which would cost $6.2 million in dead money but provide $7.898 million in cap savings.

Miami Herald reporter Barry Jackson also reported Tuesday morning that the Dolphins are “monitoring” Cook’s situation in Minnesota.

Although he carries a $14.1 million cap hit, Cook is just 27 and coming off of four straight 1,000-yard seasons. The Florida State alum rushed for 1,173 yards and eight touchdowns in 2022, adding 39 receptions, 295 yards and another two touchdowns.

Though the Dolphins re-signed Raheem Mostert to a two-year, $5.6 million deal on Tuesday, he doesn’t fix their underlying issue — the need for a workhorse, 1,000-yard back. 

Mostert led the Dolphins in rushing with 891 yards last season. He’s also had his share of injury issues, playing a full season just once in eight years. The 30-year-old tailback played in 16 games in his first year with the Dolphins, but missed 36 games over his final five seasons with the San Francisco 49ers.

Cook can also fill the role Myles Gaskin has occupied two of the last three years — a receiving threat out of the backfield. Over the last four seasons, Cook has averaged 42 receptions and 340 yards receiving per year.