The Dallas Cowboys have taken a significant step in bolstering their running game by signing four-time Pro Bowl running back Dalvin Cook. Cook, who recently worked out for Dallas, has joined the team's practice squad, a move anticipated to enhance their offensive depth.
Dalvin Cook's Stellar Career
Dalvin Cook's addition to the Cowboys' roster is a notable acquisition. Over the past five years, Cook has been a standout performer in the NFL, making the Pro Bowl in four seasons from 2019 to 2022. During his tenure with the Minnesota Vikings, he accumulated 5,238 rushing yards and scored 43 touchdowns. His impressive career stats include being the Vikings' third-leading rusher with 5,993 yards, showcasing his consistent performance on the field.
Cook's Pro Bowl seasons were marked by his exceptional rushing ability, as he recorded no less than 1,135 yards in each of those years. Even in 2023, when he played for both the New York Jets and the Baltimore Ravens, Cook managed to compile 214 rushing yards on 67 carries.
Dallas Cowboys' Offensive Aspirations
The Cowboys' offense, which led the NFL in scoring last season with an average of 29.9 points per game, has been looking to improve its red zone efficiency. With a red zone efficiency rate of 56.3% in 2023, the addition of a player like Cook could be a crucial factor in enhancing their performance in critical moments.
Jerry Jones, the owner and general manager of the Cowboys, expressed his excitement about Cook's potential impact. "He’s initially on the practice squad, gives him a chance to get in here and learn the system," Jones remarked. He further explained, "We had hoped that as time went along in this offseason, we would have an opportunity to maybe look at a player of his stature if the right circumstances came along."
Injury Concerns and Running Back Depth
The Cowboys are currently dealing with a foot injury sustained by All-Pro cornerback DaRon Bland. Despite this setback in their defense, Jones remains confident in the team's internal resources and stated he was "not at all" interested in seeking external help for the cornerback position.
On the other hand, the depth at the running back position is strengthened with Cook's arrival. The Cowboys' roster already includes Rico Dowdle, Ezekiel Elliott, Deuce Vaughn, and fullback Hunter Luepke. Elliott, another key figure in Dallas' backfield, has also been a topic of discussion for Jones. "We’re all excited about what Zeke can do for us," Jones noted, indicating the franchise's belief in Elliott's capabilities.
A Strategic Addition
Cook's journey to joining the Cowboys was methodical and well-considered. "We had a workout for him. He's in good shape," Jones revealed. "He’ll get a lot more work. He will learn the system as he goes, and he could really help us out this year." For Cook, the initial engagement with the practice squad offers a valuable period of acclimatization where he can integrate into the Cowboys' offensive schemes and build rapport with his new teammates.
Additionally, Cook has been on a path of recovery, undergoing shoulder surgery rehabilitation during the 2024 offseason. This suggests that while he may start on the practice squad, there is potential for Cook to make a significant impact once he’s in full stride.
Conclusion
The strategic acquisition of Dalvin Cook marks a promising development for the Dallas Cowboys. By adding a player of Cook's caliber, the Cowboys aim to enhance their offensive depth and improve their red zone efficiency. With Jerry Jones' confidence in both Cook and the team's current roster, the Cowboys are poised to make significant strides in the upcoming season.