NFL Free Agency 2019: Predicting the Oakland Raiders biggest moves
Jared Cook Allowed to Test Market, Signs Elsewhere
Saving the bad news for last, it’s likely tight end Jared Cook suits up for a new team in 2019. The 31-year old recorded career highs in receptions (68), receiving yards (896) and touchdowns (six) in 2018. That’s enough to significantly raise his price tag on the open market.
According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Cook could command between $8-9 million annually on the open market:
With Nick Boyle off the market on a solid deal, what other tight end gets paid? Don’t be surprised if Jared Cook cashes in, again. @nflnetwork pic.twitter.com/snxyqapSXX
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 7, 2019
The high end of Cook’s projected salary would tie Rob Gronkowski‘s average earnings at fourth on the list among tight ends, per Spotrac. It’s a steep price at the position for a non-elite talent closer to the end of his career.
Fortunately for the Raiders, the incoming tight end class features plenty of prospects who possess a high ceiling; they could make an impact as rookies. T.J. Hockenson, Noah Fant and Irv Smith Jr. highlight the group. Oakland should have a shot at one of them with the No. 27 overall pick if Gruden wants an immediate replacement for Cook. Josh Oliver and Jace Sternberger are names to watch on Day 2.
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It seems counter-intuitive to let Cook walk with enough cash to sign him, but production isn’t the only factor when tweaking the roster. It’s a salary-cap league and value means something.
A tight end in his prime years would have a good shot at returning to the team on a new deal. Turning 32 years old in April, with a talented class on the way, Cook will likely turn his best season into a big profit with a ready contender.