Running back Dalvin Cook is willing to be patient as he explores free agency for the first time.
"I want the value," the veteran told Tom Pelissero on Tuesday on "The Rich Eisen Show." "I want somebody that values Dalvin Cook. I want somebody that wants me to be there and wants to give me the ball. I just want to go into the right situation so I can go help somebody win."
Cook was released by the Minnesota Vikings last Thursday after the team failed to find a suitable trade partner. He'd spent his entire six-year career with Minnesota.
The 27-year-old's contract with the Vikings had an average annual value of $12.6 million, which ranked third among all running backs entering 2023. Cook is content waiting to find a team that will compensate him for his talent.
"If you play good, they are going to pay you," he said. "I just want to go somewhere where it feels like it's home and help somebody win and just go be me. Just go turn it loose and look for a home. That's it."
Cook is coming off of four consecutive Pro Bowl selections. He ran for at least 1,100 yards in each of those seasons.
In 2022, he totaled 1,468 scrimmage yards and 10 scrimmage touchdowns despite dealing with a banged up shoulder. Cook underwent surgery for the injury in February.
"My shoulder is feeling great," Cook said. "It's a waiting game right now at this point. Just trying to find that right situation. I don't think it's a rush or anything."
Despite his patience, Cook is excited to see what comes next.
"I'm looking forward to this next step in my life. It's going to be fun," the elusive back said. "Whoever gets Dalvin Cook, they know what they are getting. ... I'm going to be a great team player, great teammate, great person in the locker room. I'm just ready to go run the rock and help somebody win games."
