Jets running back Dalvin Cook and defensive end Carl Lawson both are clearly unhappy with their reduced roles this season. Head coach Robert Saleh still believes in both players and that they will be key contributors by the end of the season.
Both Cook and Lawson were subjects of trade speculation before Tuesday’s trade deadline, but the Jets decided to stand pat. Their biggest move Tuesday was adding veteran offensive lineman Rodger Saffold to their practice squad.
Saleh told reporters Wednesday that he is not “overly worried” about Cook or Lawson becoming distractions this season, despite both expressing their displeasure in some form. Saleh said both Cook and Lawson expect more of themselves and expect more opportunities. He also believes they will have roles moving forward, echoing what general manager Joe Douglas said Tuesday.
“They’re going to be needed by year’s end,” Saleh said.
Robert Saleh on Carl Lawson and Dalvin Cook staying despite being unhappy, said he's not worried about them becoming a distraction.
"They're going to be needed by year's end."#Jets
— Zack Rosenblatt (@ZackBlatt) November 1, 2023
Saleh recently said these early weeks are still like a preseason for Cook because he joined the team late (signing in early August). Through seven games, Cook has rushed 41 times for 114 yards, good for just a 2.8 yards per carry average. This after signing for $7 million. Breece Hall has taken control of the backfield, while Cook and Michael Carter take whatever scraps of snaps are left behind. Cook played just eight snaps against the Giants.
Lawson took a paycut this offseason to stay with the team and has now been inactive three times this season, including last week against the Giants. A back injury limited him in training camp and the Jets held him out of the season opener. Even when he plays, his role has diminished. Jermaine Johnson has blown past him on the depth chart and has been arguably the best defensive end for the Jets. Even Bryce Huff, in limited action, continues to be much more effective than Lawson.
Despite all that, the Jets still think there is a role for these two and that everything will be okay by the end of the season.
