offGrid NFL - Free Agency Frenzy: Who got the better RB deal on Monday?

Two big-name running backs finally secured free agency landing spots in the AFC East ahead of the new season, with three-time Pro Bowl selection Dalvin Cook joining the New York Jets, and ex-Dallas Cowboys superstar Ezekiel Elliott moving to the New England Patriots.

The Jets and Cook have agreed to terms on a one-year deal worth up to $8.6m, while Elliott signs a one-year deal with the Patriots worth up to $6 million.

Deals. Deals. More deals.@Mikegarafolo joined @Mike_Yam to discuss the latest signings of Zeke Elliott, Dalvin Cook, and Zack Martin (via @NFLTotalAccess) pic.twitter.com/mgnQrJ7sRu
— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) August 14, 2023

Both players were released this offseason by the Vikings and Cowboys respectively in an salary-cutting moves, but the pair are still two of the stars in their position on their day.

So who got the better deal? Let’s take a look…

Dalvin Cook and the New York Jets

Cook will line up behind Rodgers, who’s brought a lot of juice to the Jets franchise. They’ve had several NFC North battles in games between the Green Bay Packers and Minnesota Vikings. In all likelihood, Rodgers and Cook already have competitive respect for each other.

Now, Rodgers will work with Cook, who’s a reliable pass-catcher out of the backfield with 221 receptions for 1,794 yards and five touchdowns.

My thoughts on Dalvin Cook haven’t changed:

• He’s immediately RB2 on the #Jets

• Don’t think he moves the needle much but he is an upgrade

• I would’ve prioritized other moves, but I get why the Jets did this

• Not super happy about one of Carter/Bam being gone but 🤷‍♂️
— The Jet Press (@TheJetPress) August 14, 2023

For Cook, his new contract coincides with the declining running back market and to reach $8.6 million, especially if he’s coming in as a RB2, is an exceptional deal for the player. Many will question the value for New York and how much they spent, but this is really a win-win. The Jets were fairly well stacked behind Breece Hall already, with Michael Carter, Zonovan Knight and rookie Israel Abanikanda in the ranks, but Cook offers a new dimension and some much needed experience to the run game.

Following Aaron Rodgers‘ arrival this year, New York are going all-out to create a championship team, and someone like Cook is an exceptional addition for the squad.

Grade: B

Ezekiel Elliott and the New England Patriots

On paper, I really like this fit. Zeke has struggled for a couple of years, but can still offer a lot on all three downs and has the potential to complement New England’s other options really nicely.

Rhamondre Stevenson is a solid option for the Pats and he is well set to really breakout in 2023, but it’s important he stays fit and isn’t overworked past his limit.

Zeke is expected to sign with New England on a one-year deal reportedly worth a max of $6M, a team source confirmed to The Athletic.

"The Pats now have someone they can trust to occasionally spell Stevenson."

Where do you rank the Patriots' backfield?https://t.co/gQwqLZea7H
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) August 14, 2023

Elliott led the NFL in rushing in 2016 and 2018 and posted four 1,000-yard seasons while with the Cowboys but slowed in the second half of last season because of a knee injury and posted a career-low 876 yards at 3.9 yards per carry. Nonetheless, we know he can do, and if Zeke can recapture his best form, the Patriots run-game could be a huge asset this season.

In the current market, $6 million is a significant amount of money for a running back on a one-year deal, and given Elliott’s poor form, this move is a bit of a gamble. But Patriots fans shouldn’t have too many concerns, Zeke should slot into the side very nicely and we can’t wait to see what he can produce in Foxborough this season.

Grade: B