Dallas Cowboys Bolster Running Back Depth with Addition of Dalvin Cook

The Dallas Cowboys are reinforcing their running back corps with a significant move, signing free agent running back Dalvin Cook to their practice squad. This addition comes as part of the Cowboys’ strategy to deepen their offensive backfield, which is headlined by the return of Ezekiel Elliott. Elliott, after a brief stint with the New England Patriots, has rejoined the Cowboys, aiming to reclaim his role as a central figure in the team’s rushing attack.

Cook, a former Pro Bowl running back, joins a backfield that also features returning players Rico Dowdle and Deuce Vaughn, as well as fullback Hunter Luepke. The Cowboys' initial 53-man roster showcases a blend of experienced veterans and emerging talent, with Cook potentially providing a valuable veteran presence.

Last season, Cook split his time between the New York Jets and Baltimore Ravens, appearing in 15 games for the Jets, where he rushed for 214 yards. He later joined the Ravens, contributing 23 rushing yards in the AFC Divisional Round against the Houston Texans. Despite his efforts, Cook did not see action in the Ravens’ AFC Championship Game against the Kansas City Chiefs.

Originally drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the second round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Cook quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier running backs. Over his career, he has amassed 6,207 rushing yards and 47 rushing touchdowns, along with 1,872 receiving yards and five receiving touchdowns. His consistent performance earned him four consecutive 1,000-yard seasons, making him the third-leading rusher in Vikings history.

The Cowboys’ decision to sign Cook reflects their interest in maintaining a versatile and dynamic offense. As a practice squad member, Cook is eligible to be elevated to the game-day roster up to three times during the season before the team must either add him to the 53-man roster permanently or release him.

This move also positions Cook as a potential key contributor for the Cowboys’ season opener on September 8th against the Cleveland Browns. With NFL rules allowing practice squad members to be promoted temporarily, Cook could see early action as the Cowboys look to start their season on a strong note.

The addition of Dalvin Cook to the Cowboys’ running back stable clearly indicates the team’s commitment to building depth and experience in their quest for a successful 2024 NFL season. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on how Cook fits into the Cowboys’ offensive scheme and whether he can regain the form that made him one of the league’s most feared running backs during his tenure with the Vikings.

Several media outlets, including ESPN, have reported on the Cowboys’ interest in Cook, marking this as one of the more intriguing roster moves leading up to the season.