The Dallas Cowboys have bolstered their backfield with the significant addition of four-time Pro Bowl running back Dalvin Cook. The announcement comes after Cook worked out for the team on Tuesday, impressing enough to earn a spot on the practice squad.
Jerry Jones, the owner and general manager of the Cowboys, expressed his optimism about the acquisition, stating, "He’s initially on the practice squad, gives him a chance to get in here and learn the system." Cook, who made the Pro Bowl in four of his last five years with the Minnesota Vikings, brings an impressive resume to Dallas. Since bursting onto the scene with the Vikings, Cook has amassed 5,238 rushing yards and 43 touchdowns since 2019, becoming the team’s third-leading rusher with 5,993 yards.
Adding Depth Amid Challenges
The Cowboys have had their share of challenges this season, particularly with All-Pro cornerback DaRon Bland sidelined due to a foot injury. Despite this setback, Jones confirmed he was "not at all" interested in seeking external help for the cornerback position, focusing instead on strengthening other areas of the team.
Cook's addition to the practice squad is seen as a strategic move to enhance an already potent offense that led the NFL in scoring with an average of 29.9 points per game in 2023. Jones commented on this by saying, "We needed to have improvement, especially in that red zone, needed to have improvement getting in that end zone with that running game. This all bolsters that up. I’m really pleased with where we are right now at running back."
A Veteran Presence
By including Cook in the mix, the Cowboys hope to add veteran experience and depth. Despite a season in 2023 where Cook split time between the New York Jets and the Baltimore Ravens, accumulating 214 rushing yards on 67 carries, his prior performances suggest he has plenty left in the tank. In each of his Pro Bowl seasons from 2019 to 2022, Cook rushed for at least 1,135 yards, confirming his status as one of the league’s elite running backs.
Cook's journey to Dallas comes after rehabbing from shoulder surgery during the 2024 offseason, a factor that may have contributed to his availability. However, his physical condition has not been a concern for the Cowboys. "We had a workout for him. He’s in good shape. He’ll get a lot more work. He will learn the system as he goes, and he could really help us out this year," Jones remarked, emphasizing Cook’s potential contributions.
Complementing the Backfield
The Cowboys' current roster of running backs includes Rico Dowdle, Ezekiel Elliott, Deuce Vaughn, and fullback Hunter Luepke. While Elliott remains a central figure, Cook's arrival injects a fresh dynamic into the unit. "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," Jones stated, suggesting that the move was a well-considered addition rather than a reactionary adjustment.
There is a palpable excitement within the Cowboys organization regarding this latest development. "We’re all excited about what Zeke can do for us," Jones added, reflecting the positive atmosphere surrounding the team's backfield depth. As Cook integrates into the system, the Cowboys are optimistic that his presence will translate into improved performance, particularly in critical areas such as red zone efficiency, where the team recorded a 56.3% success rate in 2023.
In summary, Dalvin Cook’s signing adds a proven performer to a Dallas Cowboys team aiming to maintain its offensive prowess while addressing key performance areas. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on how Cook adjusts to his new environment and how his veteran presence impacts the Cowboys' quest for success.