Jared Cook Reportedly Set to Visit Oakland Raiders, Minnesota Vikings
March 14, 2017
Jared Cook is searching for a new home after the Green Bay Packers turned to Martellus Bennett and Lance Kendricks in free agency, but he's reportedly being pursued by a pair of intriguing suitors in need of upgrades at tight end.
According to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, Cook is scheduled to visit the Minnesota Vikings and Oakland Raiders, with the latter considered a "strong landing spot" should he leave his meeting in Minnesota without a deal.
On Monday, Rapoport reported Cook had a meeting scheduled with the Seattle Seahawks—who could use a dynamic pass-catching complement at tight end alongside Jimmy Graham.
And based on his resume through eight seasons, Cook likely won't function as more than a supplementary receiving option at his next stop.
Although a high-ankle sprain played a role in limiting his production last season (30 catches, 377 yards, one touchdown), Cook has never parlayed his 6'4'', 235-pound frame into a status as one of the league's more dynamic players at the position.
To date, Cook hasn't topped five touchdowns in a single season or 800 yards receiving. Plus, he finished the 2016 campaign with a minus-11.7 percent DVOA which "represents value, per play, over an average TE in the same game situations," according to Football Outsiders.
Should Cook latch on with the Vikings, he would likely factor into the picture as a capable No. 2 tight end behind Kyle Rudolph who can provide a fairly static passing game with another dimension in the red zone.
As far as the Raiders are concerned, Cook could see a heavier snap count as he seeks to slot in next to Clive Walford and take over the vacant roster spot occupied last season by Mychal Rivera.
AB Open to Trade with 'Any' Team