Title: New York Jets Sign Running Back Dalvin Cook Despite Pending Lawsuit with Protection Clauses
Date: [Current Date]
The New York Jets have made a bold move in signing running back Dalvin Cook despite an impending domestic violence lawsuit. Cook’s potential suspension during the 2023 season did not deter the Jets, who constructed a one-year deal that offers significant protections against such a scenario.
According to a reliable source familiar with the contract details, $5.92 million of Cook’s total compensation is tied to him not being placed on the reserve/suspended list. The absence of a signing bonus is notable, as Cook receives a guaranteed base salary of $1.08 million.
In addition, Cook’s contract includes $1.2 million in per-game active roster bonuses, which amounts to $70,588.24 for each game in which he is named on the game-day, 46-man roster.
The contract further safeguards the Jets by linking $4.72 million to Cook’s presence on the 53-man roster, regardless of whether he is active or inactive. This amount will be paid out in 18 installments, equating to $277,647.06 per week. This provision also covers Cook’s placement on the injured reserve or reserve/physically unable to perform list, accounting for the possibility that he may not pass a physical before the roster is reduced on August 29.
Of the $4.72 million, Cook is guaranteed to receive the full amount if his contract is terminated, thereby simulating the termination pay protection typically available to vested veterans like him. However, this guarantee will be voided if Cook is suspended.
The potential benefits for the Jets become evident if Cook were to face a suspension during the season. In such a circumstance, the Jets would not only avoid paying his weekly base salary of $60,000 but also save an additional $348,235.30 per week, resulting in a total savings of $408,235.30 for each week of suspension.
Overall, Cook’s base package amounts to $7 million. The contract also includes incentive clauses, with $400,000 payments for reaching 1,250 rushing yards and 1,500 yards from scrimmage, respectively. If Cook achieves 1,250 yards from scrimmage, he stands to earn $205,000 for each postseason win, with a maximum cap of $820,000.
Thus, the maximum potential compensation for Cook under this contract is $8.62 million. To reach this figure, Cook must achieve 1,250 rushing yards, 1,500 total yards from scrimmage, and the Jets must win the Super Bowl. Additionally, he must remain on the active roster for the entirety of the regular season.
By structuring Cook’s contract in this manner, the Jets have created significant safeguards while still providing motivation for the running back to perform at the highest level. Only time will tell whether this gamble pays off for both parties involved.