The Dallas Cowboys have bolstered their offense with the addition of Dalvin Cook, a four-time Pro Bowl running back. The signing marks a significant move for the team, particularly as they continue to deal with an unfortunate foot injury to their All-Pro cornerback, DaRon Bland. Jerry Jones, the Cowboys' owner and general manager, announced that Cook worked out for Dallas on Tuesday before being signed.
Cook initially joins the Cowboys' practice squad to familiarize himself with the system. "He’s initially on the practice squad, gives him a chance to get in here and learn the system," Jones explained. The plan seems to be a cautious one, ensuring Cook fully integrates into the team dynamics before taking on extensive responsibilities.
A Proven Performer
Dalvin Cook's career statistics underline why the Cowboys were eager to bring him on board. Having made the Pro Bowl in four out of his last five years with the Minnesota Vikings, Cook amassed 5,238 rushing yards and 43 touchdowns since 2019. He stands as the franchise's third-leading rusher with a total of 5,993 yards.
Cook's consistency cannot be overstated. From 2019 through 2022, he rushed for at least 1,135 yards each season, averaging a significant impact on the ground. Even in 2023, when he split his time between the New York Jets and the Baltimore Ravens, Cook managed to tally 214 rushing yards on 67 carries.
A Calculated Move
The Cowboys' decision to sign Cook aligns with their already potent offense, which led the NFL in scoring with an average of 29.9 points per game in 2023. However, the team's red zone efficiency at 56.3% left room for improvement. Jones indicated that Cook's addition could address this specific area of need. "We needed to have improvement, especially in that red zone, needed to have improvement getting in that end zone with that running game," Jones said. "This all bolsters that up. I’m really pleased with where we are right now at running back."
This year, the Cowboys' roster already includes Rico Dowdle, Ezekiel Elliott, Deuce Vaughn, and fullback Hunter Luepke. The team appears to be aiming for depth and versatility in their running game. "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 admitted. The team evidently feels they have found that player in Cook.
Optimism and Expectations
Cook's arrival in Dallas is indeed timely, especially considering his recent shoulder surgery rehab, which he underwent during the 2024 offseason. Yet, Jones seems confident in Cook’s current physical condition and readiness to contribute. "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 reassured fans and stakeholders alike.
The excitement surrounding Cook's signing is palpable within the Cowboys organization. Not only does it reinforce the team's depth in the running back position, but it also brings a fresh dimension to their offensive strategy. Jones's optimism was evident as he acknowledged the potential benefits Cook could deliver. "We’re all excited about what Zeke can do for us," he said, highlighting the complementary roles within the backfield.
As the Cowboys move forward, integrating a player of Cook’s caliber could be the key to unlocking further offensive prowess and greater red zone efficiency. With the practice squad as his starting point, Cook will soon have the opportunity to translate his proven performance into results for Dallas.