NFL Rumors: Cowboys could lose out on Zeke replacement before even bidding

The Dallas Cowboys running back depth chart is looking a little weak at the moment, with Malik Davis and rookie Deuce Vaughn behind Tony Pollard. What about Dalvin Cook?

The Minnesota Vikings are expected to finally release Dalvin Cook sometime soon, as any trade talk around the veteran running back has dissipated over the past few weeks. Cook will be a free agent, the question is when.

In similar fashion, Dallas let Ezekiel Elliott go months ago. Elliott has yet to find a new home, despite being connected to a few openings, including the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

A potential replacement for Elliott, should Dallas want one in the locker room, would be Dalvin Cook. The pair have a similar amount of wear and tear, though Cook has played significantly less in recent years due to injury. Assuming he’s fully healed from those issues — which is a relatively major if — Cook could be a better option and have more left in his legs at this point in his career.

Can the Dallas Cowboys sign Dalvin Cook?

If Cook is released by Minnesota, then expect the Cowboys to be in for his services. However, they may not get the first shot at him.

The Vikings are holding out hope that someone — anyone, really — wants to trade for Cook. $2 million of his current contract is guaranteed, while the other $8 million locks in come Week 1. That’s a lot of money to spend for a backup running back.

Perhaps Cook would rework his contract to benefit the team trading for him. That’s certainly an option. But, for now, teams are waiting on the Vikings next move. In all likelihood, that will be to release Cook.

When that happens, the Miami Dolphins are likely suitors for him. Cook has been training in south Florida, making Miami an attractive fit and one that is nearby, as well. They will get the first crack at him should Dallas (or another suitor) not meet the Vikings asking price via trade.