In a move that could significantly bolster their already potent offense, the Dallas Cowboys have signed four-time Pro Bowl running back Dalvin Cook. Cook, who showcased his prowess with the Minnesota Vikings before brief stints with the New York Jets and Baltimore Ravens in 2023, worked out for Dallas on Tuesday and was subsequently signed to the practice squad.
A Strategic Acquisition
The decision to bring Cook into the fold appears to be carefully calculated. Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones expressed his satisfaction with the acquisition, emphasizing the opportunity for Cook to assimilate into the team's system. "He’s initially on the practice squad, gives him a chance to get in here and learn the system," Jones stated. This approach allows Cook to adapt gradually, ensuring he can contribute effectively when activated to the main roster.
Dalvin Cook's Impressive Track Record
Over his career, Cook has amassed 5,238 rushing yards and scored 43 touchdowns since 2019, cementing his reputation as a top-tier running back. He ranks as the third-leading rusher in Vikings history with a total of 5,993 yards. During his Pro Bowl years from 2019 to 2022, Cook consistently rushed for over 1,135 yards each season, showcasing his ability to sustain peak performance over multiple seasons.
However, Cook's 2023 season was less remarkable as he split his time between the Jets and the Ravens, managing to accumulate 214 rushing yards on 67 carries. Despite this dip in production, the Cowboys see his addition as an immediate upgrade and a step towards ensuring more offensive consistency.
Addressing Offensive Needs
With the Cowboys leading the NFL in scoring last season, averaging 29.9 points per game, the focus now shifts to maintaining and enhancing that production, particularly in the red zone, where their efficiency was 56.3%. Jones highlighted the need for improvement in this area, stating, "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."
Cook joins a running back room that includes Rico Dowdle, Ezekiel Elliott, Deuce Vaughn, and fullback Hunter Luepke. Jones seems particularly enthusiastic about what Elliott can bring to the table this season. "We’re all excited about what Zeke can do for us," Jones remarked, reflecting the team's confidence in its multifaceted backfield.
Coping with Defensive Setbacks
While the offensive acquisition of Cook brings a positive note, the Cowboys are also contending with a significant setback on defense as All-Pro cornerback DaRon Bland copes with a foot injury. Despite this challenge, Jones is steadfast in his approach, asserting he is "not at all" interested in seeking external help for the cornerback position. This statement underlines his confidence in the current roster's ability to step up and compensate for Bland's absence.
A Calculated Bet
Cook's addition to the practice squad is seen as a low-risk, high-reward move. Jerry Jones elaborated on the strategic thinking behind this decision: "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." This methodical approach provides Cook with the necessary time to acclimate while still offering the potential to make a significant impact as the season progresses.
The Cowboys' decision-making reflects a clear vision: fortify their already leading offense while maintaining faith in their defensive depth. Dalvin Cook's proven track record and current physical state suggest that he could indeed be a valuable asset, providing versatility and veteran experience to a team with high aspirations for the season ahead.