NFL Rumors: Dalvin Cook expected to get 'significant' deal, Patriots, Dolphins, Jets all involved
We've known for some time since the Minnesota Vikings released longtime running back Dalvin Cook that the running back is prepared to be patient as he looks for a new team in free agency. And now it seems that his brief stint with patience could already be paying dividends with the way his market is shaping up.
NFL insider Tom Pelissero appeared on The Rich Eisen Show and told the host that there are several teams, estimated around a half-dozen, interested in Cook. The insider also mentioned four possible landing spots, most of which had already been discussed in the Patriots, Dolphins, Jets and Broncos.
Perhaps the most notable aspect of the update, though, was the potential compensation Cook could be looking at. While the running back market in free agency this offseason has largely been tepid and the assumption has been it would continue that way with Cook, Pelissero noted that the former Viking is likely to ink a "significant" contract with whichever team he signs with.
Cook's top priority after making sure he'll be used heavily in his new offense is to play for a contender. Aside from Denver, a team that could make a leap with the arrival of Sean Payton, the trio of AFC East teams would all fit that bill easily.
But once again, don't expect Cook to sign anytime soon. In fact, if he did, that would be a bit of a surprise. On the whole, he seems content to take his time and let this host of suitors battle it out for his services — services that teams are apparently willing to pay a pretty penny for.
NFL Rumors: Eagles star OT Lane Johnson gives Cowboys pass-rushers major love
Lane Johnson knows a thing or two about what it takes to be a great offensive tackle in the NFL. The Philadelphia Eagle has been an All-Pro level player for a long time now, showing up and showing out against the best in the league.
However, not every matchup is created equal. Such was the topic of discussion as Johnson was a guest on The Richard Sherman Podcast this week with the longtime NFL cornerback. He was asked who the toughest matchups were as opposing pass-rushers. There were a few expected answers in Myles Garrett, Maxx Crosby and T.J. Watt.
But then Johnson had to commit NFC East atrocities, reaching across rivalry lines to tip his cap to a pair of Dallas Cowboys, Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence.
You can almost see that it was hard for him to dole out that compliment to a hated rival.
Despite calling that duo tough matchups, the Cowboys pass-rushers haven't had a ton of success against the Eagles. Parsons, for his part, has just 0.5 sacks and two tackles for loss in three games against Johnson and Philadelphia. Lawrence, meanwhile, has only 3.0 sacks in 16 career games, though he does have 10 QB hits and 10 tackles for loss to his credit.
In any case, it's always great when an elite rivalry has respect between the two sides. With Johnson including the pair of Cowboys on his list of top pass-rushers, it's clear this iteration of the longstanding NFC East clash has that respect in a big way.
NFL Rumors: Panthers a dark horse to land DeAndre Hopkins for Bryce Young
Every day in the NFL offseason seems to hold a new update on DeAndre Hopkins, even if some of the new information conflicts with old information. But now there is an interesting wrinkle being thrown into the mix for the wide receiver who is one of the coveted commodities still available in free agency.
The New England Patriots are reportedly the favorite to land the 31-year-old still, while the Tennessee Titans also reportedly have an offer out. Meanwhile, there are conflicting reports regarding how much the Cleveland Browns are involved in a potential reunion with Deshaun Watson, if they are at all.
However, NFL insider Sal Paolantonio reported on Tuesday while appearing on ESPN Radio that a dark horse team is in the mix: the Carolina Panthers.
After moving up to draft their future franchise quarterback, Bryce Young, first overall, the Panthers receiving corps is fine, but still leaves something to be desired. The top five in the group appear to be Terrace Marshall Jr., DJ Chark, Adam Thielen, rookie Jonathan Mingo, and Laviska Shenault Jr. There's talent there but, with DJ Moore in Chicago, there isn't a known game-changer in that group.
Hopkins, however, could be that and could be a real asset for Young in his early development. More importantly, the Panthers have plenty of cap space to land the wideout on a player-friendly contract, which could be huge for their chances of landing him. And it's also worth mentioning that, with another offensive upgrade, Carolina could be far more competitive than expected if Young can live up to the hype immediately.
Again, the Pats are the likely landing spot when it's all said and done. But keep an eye on the Panthers. They make sense for DeAndre Hopkins, and apparently there's a little something brewing there too.