Are NY Jets still favorites for Dalvin Cook after in-person visit?

As soon as the Minnesota Vikings decided to part ways with running back Dalvin Cook, the NY Jets have been at the forefront of the chase to sign him. While some might claim he has lost a step, he is still a very effective runner, pass-catcher, and clutch performer.

With Breece Hall still working his way back from injury and backups Michael Carter and Zonovan Knight not exactly playing like Walter Payton, the Jets have been trying to lure Cook to town and create another 1-2 punch that maligned offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett could lean on.

Between Cook saying that he is very interested in signing with the Jets on live TV and his visit to the Jets' facility, there is a ton of momentum building towards the Pro Bowl running back joining Aaron Rodgers in Florham Park. However, nothing is set in stone just yet.

Cook left the Jets' facility without signing a deal, which seemed a bit unusual for a player who seemed to signal his preference for New York in such a bold manner. Are the Jets still in pole position for Cook after they were unable to close a deal with him this weekend?

Are NY Jets favorites for Dalvin Cook after visit?

Cook has run for at least 1,100 yards in each of the last four seasons and has topped 1,400 yards from scrimmage three times in that span. While he took a step back last year, he remains a quality playmaker in a league that is marginalizing his position.

Many of Cook's top suitors are in the division alongside the Jets, which could prompt a bidding way between AFC East foes. The Dolphins could appeal to the Florida State alum and Miami native, the Bills would allow him to play with his brother James, and the Patriots are desperate for another back.

The Jets should feel good about themselves and their chances with Cook. Not only do they have a pathway to playing time, an offensive coordinator that is committed to running the ball all the time, and enough financial wiggle room to compensate him like a high-end back.

Even the running back supporters will warn against paying an aging back who is coming off a somewhat uneven season, but Cook can be a quality two-year addition that adds a degree of juice to the Rodgers-led offense.

The Jets must be wary of their rivals, but that doesn't mean they have been knocked out of first place in the Dalvin Cook race.