The Dallas Cowboys have bolstered their backfield by signing four-time Pro Bowl running back Dalvin Cook. The addition comes as a strategic move, especially given their aspirations to improve their already potent offensive lineup.
Cook, who worked out for the Cowboys on Tuesday, was subsequently signed and will initially join the practice squad. Jerry Jones, the owner and general manager of the Cowboys, emphasized the importance of this acquisition, stating, "He’s initially on the practice squad, gives him a chance to get in here and learn the system."
Dalvin Cook's Stellar Track Record
Cook's pedigree as a top-tier running back cannot be overstated. During his tenure with the Minnesota Vikings, he made the Pro Bowl in four out of the last five years, amassing impressive statistics. Cook rushed for 5,238 yards and recorded 43 touchdowns since 2019. Notably, he is the Vikings' third-leading rusher with 5,993 yards. In each Pro Bowl season from 2019 to 2022, he rushed for at least 1,135 yards.
In 2023, Cook had brief stints with both the New York Jets and the Baltimore Ravens, where he accumulated 214 rushing yards on 67 carries. Although his numbers dipped last season, Cook's talent and experience remain invaluable assets.
The Cowboys' Offensive Leadership
The Cowboys led the NFL in scoring in 2023 with an average of 29.9 points per game. Despite this high-scoring ability, the team identified a need for improvement in red zone efficiency, which stood at 56.3%. Addressing this, Jones remarked, "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."
The current roster of running backs, featuring Rico Dowdle, Ezekiel Elliott, Deuce Vaughn, and fullback Hunter Luepke, is now further strengthened by Cook's presence. Jones is optimistic about the collective capabilities of his running backs and particularly excited about Elliott's role, stating, "We’re all excited about what Zeke can do for us."
Cook's Rehabilitation and Future Prospects
Cook's journey to the Cowboys comes after he spent time rehabbing a shoulder surgery during the 2024 offseason. Despite this, his workout with the team impressed the organization's leadership. Jones confirmed, "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."
The Cowboys' decision not to seek external help for the cornerback position, even amidst DaRon Bland's foot injury, underscores their confidence in their current lineup. Jones plainly stated his stance, saying he was "not at all" interested in looking outside the team for reinforcements at that position.
In adding Dalvin Cook to their roster, the Cowboys are clearly gearing up for a stronger push in the upcoming season. By integrating a player of Cook's caliber, the team not only enhances its running game but also sends a message of intent to the rest of the league. Cook's experience and proven track record could provide the edge the Cowboys need to convert their offensive efforts into victories, particularly in the red zone where they've previously faced challenges.
As Cook settles into the team's system through practice squad participation, the Cowboys and their fans eagerly anticipate the dynamic contributions he will make. The move is a calculated one, aligning with the Cowboys' strategy of building a robust and versatile offensive arsenal to compete at the highest level.