It was a surprise for everybody as four-time Pro Bowl Running Back Dalvin Cook signed with the Dallas Cowboys earlier this week. Starting on the practice squad, Cook did not hide his eagerness to help the team win some games. The established stars in Ezekiel Elliott, Rico Dowdle, and Deuce Vaughn, though, make the question of Cook’s role in this running back-by-committee setup highly intriguing for the Cowboys.
Dalvin Cook Ready to Thrive With Cowboys
This is quite promising for Cook. After all, Cook has earned his reputation for being a solid running back and being dependable. He will not hesitate to prove that he still be an elite player. Throughout his peak period with the Vikings, Cook was the driving force of their offense. He was a large chunk of their offense, handling considerable parts of the game’s responsibility. Next, Cook will be prepared to assume a new role in Dallas, where he is expected to fit into sharing the carries.
The running back group of the Cowboys has been largely considered one of the weakest in the league. Even last season, amidst all the talk about how strong the team was, the running back room showed up rather underwhelmingly. With Cook on board, at least there is some semblance of hope for a turnaround. His experience can help keep the group strong and perhaps elevate it. The stat line of 1,173 yards and 8 touchdowns from his last full season with the Vikings showed his capability.
Embracing A New Role
In a recent interview, Cook was all too eager to adapt and learn from his new teammates. Majorly, he is excited to work with Ezekiel Elliott, saying, “I can obviously learn a lot from him. He’s older than me.” He also appreciated the fact that he might get a chance at both mentoring some of the younger players on the roster and being mentored by them. It is this sense of collaboration that could very well be what drives the entire unit forward.
Despite a great career, Cook has a realistic view that things are going to be different from what he’s accustomed to. From being a clear primary back to being part of a shared committee, there will be adjustments necessary. However, Cook has his eyes set on productivity and how to be useful in any capacity for the team. His experience combined with his flexibility will largely be his keys to success with the Cowboys.
Looking Ahead To The Season
This season is going to be an important challenge for Cook and the Cowboys. The opening of the season is with the Cleveland Browns on September 8, so all hands are necessary. Cook might just be that missing link in their running game to make it more impactful and successful. Fans and analysts alike will look keenly upon his role in this new setting.
As Cook prepares to dive into his new position with the Cowboys, that blend of experience and young energy in the backfield might just hold the key to success. Whether he’s sharing carries or giving insight, Cook is perfectly positioned to make a serious impact. The Cowboys and their fans are highly anticipating this new chapter in their eyes.
