Former Baltimore Ravens RB Dalvin Cook Could Bolster Dallas Cowboys’ Offense
The Dallas Cowboys, already making significant changes to their running back group, might consider an even more impactful addition: former Baltimore Ravens running back Dalvin Cook. After a lackluster year split between the New York Jets and the Ravens, Cook is on the hunt for a new team, and the Cowboys could be an ideal destination.
Bleacher Report writer Kristopher Knox highlighted this possibility in a June 24 article. Knox argues that the Cowboys need a reliable workhorse to complement their current roster and reduce the pressure on quarterback Dak Prescott.
“Adding another back to the mix would be sensible because if the offense doesn’t have balance, Prescott is going to face a lot of pressure,” Knox wrote. “It would behoove the Cowboys to at least kick the tires on Dalvin Cook. The four-time Pro Bowler appeared to lose a step in 2022 and struggled to get on the field in 2023.”
Potential for a Team-Friendly Deal
Knox suggests that Cook might be open to a “team-friendly” contract, potentially in the range of $2-3 million. This is a significant reduction from the $7 million deal Cook had with the Jets during the 2023 season before his brief stint with the Ravens in the playoffs.
Despite being past his prime, Cook’s status as a four-time Pro Bowler makes him an attractive low-risk, high-reward acquisition. Securing a player with such a high ceiling for a bargain price is an opportunity the Cowboys might not want to miss.
Cook’s Career: A Rollercoaster Ride
During his time with the Minnesota Vikings, Cook was considered one of the NFL’s top running backs. A standout from Florida State, Cook lived up to his second-round draft expectations after joining the Vikings in 2017. However, his early career was marred by injuries.
In his rookie season, Cook tore his ACL after only four games. The following year, a hamstring injury limited him to just 11 games. Despite these setbacks, Cook’s performance in 2019 marked his return to form. He played 14 games, rushing for 1,135 yards and 13 touchdowns, and added 519 receiving yards.
From 2019 to 2022, Cook was a consistent threat, making the Pro Bowl each year. His 1,135 rushing yards in 2019 were the lowest during this period until his struggles in 2023, where he managed only 214 rushing yards and one touchdown over 15 games with the Jets.
Fresh Legs for 2024?
In an April interview with KPRC 2 writer Aaron Wilson, Cook expressed optimism about the 2024 season. He noted that 2023 was less physically demanding, leaving him feeling rejuvenated.
“I’ve got it all,” Cook said. “The tools are still here. I didn’t really get no reps last year. So, the legs are fresh, so the resume speaks for itself. I’m still Dalvin Cook. I’m still that guy. For me, I don’t like to toot my own horn. I just like to go out there, put my helmet on and line up on the grass.”
What’s Next for Dalvin Cook?
Whether Cook lands with the Cowboys or another team remains uncertain. However, his confidence and potential make him a player worth watching. For a team like the Cowboys, looking to balance their offense and support Dak Prescott, Cook could be the perfect fit.
Evan Reier, a sports journalist for Heavy.com, specializes in covering the NFL with a focus on the Dallas Cowboys and San Francisco 49ers. He has also worked for the Montana Standard and was a managing editor for Outsider.
