In a strategic move to bolster their backfield, the Dallas Cowboys have signed four-time Pro Bowl running back Dalvin Cook. The team announced that Cook, who previously played for the Minnesota Vikings, New York Jets, and Baltimore Ravens, will initially join their practice squad.
Dalvin Cook’s Prolific Career
Cook brings with him an illustrious resume, having made the Pro Bowl in four out of his last five years with the Vikings. During his tenure with Minnesota, Cook accumulated 5,238 rushing yards and 43 touchdowns, solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s premier running backs. He ranks third on the Vikings' all-time rushing list with 5,993 yards. From 2019 to 2022, Cook consistently rushed for at least 1,135 yards each season, showcasing his durability and talent.
However, his 2023 season was split between the New York Jets and the Baltimore Ravens, where he managed 214 rushing yards on 67 carries during the regular season. Cook then underwent shoulder surgery rehab during the 2024 offseason, an important recovery period that will likely impact his initial role with the Cowboys.
Jerry Jones on the Acquisition
Jerry Jones, the Cowboys’ owner and general manager, expressed his excitement over adding Cook to the team. “He’s initially on the practice squad, gives him a chance to get in here and learn the system," Jones noted. He also detailed the strategic thinking behind the move: “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 emphasized the need for improvement in the Cowboys’ red zone efficiency, which stood at 56.3% in 2023. “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,” he said.
Filling the Gaps
The Cowboys' offense, which led the NFL in scoring with an average of 29.9 points per game in 2023, is set to benefit significantly from Cook’s addition. The current roster of running backs includes Rico Dowdle, Ezekiel Elliott, Deuce Vaughn, and fullback Hunter Luepke. With Cook now in the mix, competition and performance in the backfield are expected to ramp up.
The decision to bring in Cook also comes amid concerns over the team's defensive backfield. All-Pro cornerback DaRon Bland is currently sidelined with a foot injury, but Jones stated he was "not at all" interested in seeking external help for the cornerback position, focusing instead on internal solutions and the bolstering of the offense.
Reflecting on Cook’s potential impact, Jones commented, “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.”
What to Expect from Cook
Given Cook's proven track record and his recovery progress from shoulder surgery, fans and analysts will be closely monitoring his integration into the Cowboys' system. As Jerry Jones mentioned, “We’re all excited about what Zeke can do for us,” signifying that expectations for Cook are high.
Cook’s ability to adapt and contribute will be pivotal as the Cowboys navigate their upcoming season. With a high-powered offense and newfound depth in the backfield, Dallas is positioning itself as a formidable contender. Whether Cook will be a key component of their success remains to be seen, but the signing certainly adds another layer of intrigue to an already exciting season.
As Dalvin Cook dons the Cowboys' star, the team and its fans are undoubtedly hopeful for a revitalized running game and a potent offensive threat that can carry them deep into the playoffs.