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UNC Football: How Dalvin Cook’s decision could impact Michael Carter

By Nick Delahanty

Nov 27, 2022; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets running back Michael Carter (32) runs with the ball against the Chicago Bears during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 27, 2022; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Jets running back Michael Carter (32) runs with the ball against the Chicago Bears during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports /
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The former UNC football standout could end up being the odd man out if his current team elects to sign this star free-agent running back.

With NFL training camps underway, there are still a few quality running backs that are still available on the free-agent market.

One of them is star Dalvin Cook, one of the league’s best running backs since he was drafted in 2017. The New York Jets have been heavily linked to Cook, as the former Minnesota Viking spent the weekend visiting the team in Florham Park, New Jersey.

As the Jets explore every possible option to improve their roster, Cook seems to make a lot of sense for them, especially given that starter Breece Hall is still rehabbing from a season-ending injury from a year ago.

However, if the Jets do agree to terms on a deal with Cook, former UNC football standout Michael Carter may become the odd-man-out with the Jets.

The Jets running back depth currently looks like this:

Breece Hall
Michael Carter
Zonovan Knight
Israel Abanikanda (Rookie)

If Cook gets inserted into the mix, it seems very unlikely that the Jets will carry five running backs to start the season.

Hall’s roster spot is safe, while you have to assume Abanikanda, who was drafted out of Pittsburgh in this year’s draft, is a guy the Jets won’t want to give up on right away.

That leaves Carter and Knight, and it ultimately may come down to potential trade value.

Knight, whose nickname is “Bam,” is entering his second season after showing some flashes as a rookie. Carter, entering year three, maybe a more enticing option for teams looking to add running back depth.

A lot rides on the future of Dalvin Cook, as Carter’s future will be impacted by his decision. If he signs elsewhere, Carter likely retains his role with the Jets, but if Cook lands in New Jersey, Carter could be looking for a new home before the season gets underway.

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