The Dallas Cowboys have made a bold move to bolster their running game by signing four-time Pro Bowl running back Dalvin Cook. Jerry Jones, the owner and general manager of the Cowboys, announced that Cook—the former Minnesota Vikings standout—initially joined the practice squad on Tuesday after working out for the team. This strategic acquisition aims to strengthen an already high-powered offense that led the NFL in scoring last season, averaging 29.9 points per game.
Cook's Impact and Immediate Plans
"He’s initially on the practice squad, gives him a chance to get in here and learn the system," Jones noted. This comment underscores the team's intention to integrate Cook smoothly into their offensive scheme while evaluating his fit. Cook, who amassed 5,238 rushing yards and 43 touchdowns since 2019, brings a wealth of experience and talent to Dallas. His recent tenure with both the New York Jets and the Baltimore Ravens in 2023 saw limited production, with 214 rushing yards on 67 carries, but his history of Pro Bowl performances speaks volumes.
Addressing Offseason Needs
The star-studded running back’s move comes as part of a broader strategy by Dallas to improve its red zone efficiency, a key area identified by Jones as needing enhancement. "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," Jones stated.
With a current roster featuring Rico Dowdle, Ezekiel Elliott, Deuce Vaughn, and fullback Hunter Luepke, the acquisition of Cook adds depth and a potential game-changing dynamic. "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 added, highlighting the opportunistic nature of this signing.
Cook’s Recent Track Record
During his tenure with the Minnesota Vikings, Cook proved to be a formidable force, rushing for at least 1,135 yards in each of his Pro Bowl seasons from 2019 to 2022. He ranks as the Vikings' third-leading rusher with 5,993 yards, a testament to his consistent performance and durability. Despite undergoing shoulder surgery rehab in the 2024 offseason, Cook's resilience and readiness to perform at a high level remain undoubted.
Jones expressed confidence in Cook's current condition and immediate potential contribution. "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," he commented, indicating that Cook's immediate focus will be on acclimating to the team’s system and increasing his workload incrementally.
Defense Concerns Unaddressed
While the Cowboys have fortified their offensive backfield, challenges remain on the defensive side, particularly in the secondary. All-Pro cornerback DaRon Bland's foot injury is a significant concern. However, Jones has expressed his reluctance to seek outside help to address this issue. "Not at all," Jones said curtly when asked about looking externally for defensive reinforcements. This stance suggests a reliance on internal resources and development to cover defensive gaps.
Anticipation and Expectations
The signing of Dalvin Cook has undoubtedly created a buzz around the Cowboys' camp. While the immediate expectations are tempered with cautious optimism, the potential for Cook to elevate Dallas's running game and overall offensive efficiency brings excitement. "We’re all excited about what Zeke can do for us," Jones said, reflecting the overall enthusiasm towards the team’s backfield capabilities moving forward.
As Cook begins his tenure with the Cowboys on the practice squad, eyes will be on how quickly he adapts, learns the playbook, and ultimately contributes to the team’s objectives this season. The Cowboys, already a formidable offensive unit, may have added just the piece they need to push further into postseason contention.