In a move that’s catching the attention of NFL fans, veteran running back Dalvin Cook is reportedly joining the Dallas Cowboys’ practice squad. This development, first reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, marks a new chapter in Cook’s illustrious career as he steps into a role that could see him contributing to the Cowboys’ regular-season roster.
Dalvin Cook’s NFL Journey
Dalvin Cook, a 29-year-old powerhouse, spent the 2023 season splitting time between the New York Jets and Baltimore Ravens. Before that, he enjoyed six standout seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, where he established himself as one of the league’s premier running backs. Cook’s tenure with the Vikings was nothing short of impressive, as he made four consecutive Pro Bowl appearances from 2019 to 2022 and surpassed 1,300 rushing yards in each of those seasons.
However, after undergoing shoulder surgery in the 2023 offseason, Cook was released by the Vikings before the start of training camp. He signed with the Jets but played a backup role, managing just 214 yards on 67 attempts without finding the end zone in 15 games. Later in the season, Cook joined the Ravens for their postseason run, contributing modestly in their victory over the Houston Texans but sitting out the AFC Championship loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.
Why the Cowboys?
For Dallas, bringing Cook on board adds depth and experience to a running back room that already includes Ezekiel Elliott, Rico Dowdle, and rookie Deuce Vaughn. Cook’s proven ability to perform at a high level, particularly in big games, makes him a valuable asset, even if he starts on the practice squad. The move is a strategic one for the Cowboys, offering them a seasoned back who could be called up to the active roster if needed.
Cook met with the Cowboys earlier this week ahead of the NFL’s roster cutdown day. Although he reportedly had a meeting scheduled with the Indianapolis Colts, that visit has been canceled following his decision to join Dallas.
What This Means for the Cowboys
For the Cowboys, Cook’s addition to the practice squad is a low-risk, high-reward scenario. If Cook can regain some of the form that made him a Pro Bowl regular, he could provide a significant boost to the Cowboys’ running game. His experience and versatility could also be invaluable in mentoring younger backs like Vaughn, helping to solidify Dallas’ depth chart as they prepare for the season ahead.
As the Cowboys look to build on their recent successes, having a player of Cook’s caliber waiting in the wings could be a game-changer. While it remains to be seen how much impact Cook will have this season, his presence alone adds intrigue and excitement to an already competitive roster.
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