The Dallas Cowboys made significant waves this week by signing four-time Pro Bowl running back Dalvin Cook, following a workout last Tuesday. This move injects further star power into an already potent offensive lineup led by owner and general manager Jerry Jones' leadership.
Dalvin Cook Joins the Cowboys
Cook, who has been a standout performer with the Minnesota Vikings, brings an impressive resume to the Cowboys. During his tenure in Minnesota, Cook accumulated 5,238 rushing yards and 43 touchdowns since 2019. Notably, he made the Pro Bowl in four out of his last five seasons with the Vikings, recording at least 1,135 rushing yards each year from 2019 to 2022. Cook is also the third-leading rusher in Vikings history with 5,993 yards.
The 2023 season saw Cook splitting time between the New York Jets and the Baltimore Ravens, where he amassed 214 rushing yards on 67 carries. Despite these figures being lower than his Pro Bowl seasons, the Cowboys see significant potential in Cook. Jones shared, "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."
A Calculated Move by Jerry Jones
Cook will initially join the Cowboys' practice squad, a strategic move that allows him time to acclimate to the new system. Jones explained, "He’s initially on the practice squad, gives him a chance to get in here and learn the system." Jones is optimistic about the influence Cook will have, adding, "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 addition comes at a critical time for the Cowboys, who are facing injury issues in their defense. All-Pro cornerback DaRon Bland is currently sidelined with a foot injury, but Jones has stated he’s "not at all" interested in seeking external help for the cornerback position. Instead, the focus is on bolstering the offense.
Reinforcing a High-Powered Offense
The Cowboys' offense soared last season, leading the NFL in scoring with an average of 29.9 points per game. However, red zone efficiency was a particular area needing improvement, with the team recording a 56.3% efficiency in 2023. Jones acknowledged this, 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."
Cook complements an already diverse and talented running back group, including Rico Dowdle, Ezekiel Elliott, Deuce Vaughn, and fullback Hunter Luepke. Elliott, a familiar face, continues to be a focal point. Jones remarked, "We’re all excited about what Zeke can do for us."
Cook's Road to Dallas
Dalvin Cook's journey to the Cowboys hasn't been without its challenges. Undergoing shoulder surgery rehab during the 2024 offseason, questions about his physical readiness were prevalent. The Cowboys’ recent workout addressed these concerns, with Cook proving he's in good shape, thus paving the way for his signing.
Looking forward, the Cowboys are optimistic that Cook will adapt quickly and make significant contributions. With a solid defense and an already high-scoring offense, bolstering the running game could be the key to pushing further into the playoffs. As Cook learns the system and integrates into the team, the Dallas Cowboys look poised to leverage his skills to their fullest potential.
Overall, the Cowboys' acquisition of Dalvin Cook signifies a strategic and calculated addition aimed at elevating an already formidable offense. With the regular season in full swing, all eyes will be on Cook and how he adapts to his new home in Dallas.