Dalvin Cook is back in the NFL spotlight, this time on the Dallas Cowboys’ practice squad, raising eyebrows around the league.
The 29-year-old running back, who is known for his explosive pace and game-changing plays, is now anticipated to split the field with Ezekiel Elliott, another experienced veteran. This surprising transfer has set up what may be a redemption story for Cook, who is coming off a difficult season with the New York Jets.
Cook signed a $7 million contract with the Jets last year, but his tenure there has been everything but pleasant. Despite the great expectations, Cook struggled to find his groove and was finally released before the playoffs.
However, he did make a brief appearance in the postseason, suiting up for the Baltimore Ravens for one game in an attempt to salvage what remained of a disastrous season.
A COLD TEXAS CHEF
The Dallas Cowboys have signed star running back Dalvin Cook, adding firepower to their offense. With his speed and vision, Cook – one of our favorites, is set to give the Cowboys' ground game a serious boost this season.
Photo Credits: @NFL. pic.twitter.com/ayPB7WMK7c
— The NFL Column (@NFLColumn) September 1, 2024
So what went wrong? Cook blamed Aaron Rodgers’ Achilles injury, which occurred only four plays into the Jets season. In an interview with ESPN, Cook said that the Jets were caught off guard when Rodgers went down.”When Aaron went down on Play 4, everything was just a little bit different,” Cook admitted to ESPN.”There was no emergency plan… It was just like, ‘What should we do?'”
Cook played 15 games but had a forgettable season based on his statistics. He gained 214 rushing yards on 67 carries, averaging only 3.2 yards per attempt. Cook hopes to revive his career in Dallas with a healthy Dak Prescott at quarterback and a strong offensive line.
Dallas bets on Dalvin Cook: Modest contract, big expectations
The Cowboys’ choice to sign Cook comes with a small financial commitment. Cook is anticipated to earn between $277k and $358k as part of the practice squad for the upcoming season.
This is a significant decrease from his prior contract but might be a stepping stone to a larger role. The depth chart for Dallas’ running backs has sparked controversy. Cook’s addition adds excitement to the team, which already includes Ezekiel Elliott, Rico Dowdle, and youngster Deuce Vaughn as leaders. Cook’s signing is crucial given the team’s struggle to find a suitable replacement for Tony Pollard, who left in free agency.
As the Cowboys come off another 12-win season, there’s skepticism about whether they can maintain their dominance in the NFC East.
The lackluster offseason, combined with the uncertainty surrounding Dak Prescott’s future, has left many wondering if this is the year the Cowboys’ Super Bowl dreams finally unravel.
