After signing wideout CeeDee Lamb to a massive extension, it appears as if Dallas has now shifted focus to the running back position. Sources tell NFL insider Tom Pelissero that the Cowboys will be flying free-agent running back and four-time Pro Bowler Dalvin Cook to Dallas for a workout.
Flirtations with Cook are nothing new but the team is extending their dance to a face-to-face meeting.
The #Cowboys might not be done: Sources say 4x Pro Bowl RB Dalvin Cook is flying to Dallas tonight for a visit.
Unlike a year ago, when he was rehabbing from shoulder surgery, Cook has hit the weights all offseason and says he feels the best he has in years. pic.twitter.com/jT9Zsf91qB
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) August 26, 2024
The Vikings selected Cook in the second round of the 2017 NFL draft out of Florida State. He failed to reach 1,000 combined rushing yards in his first two seasons, but broke out in his third year en route to four consecutive millenium campaigns.
He was named to the Pro Bowl four times, each season between 2019 and 2022.
After his release from Minnesota in 2023, Cook signed with the New York Jets in the middle of August but failed to find his footing and was released by the team in early January. The veteran back tallied 214 yards on 67 carries averaging 3.2 yards per rush.
Less than a week later, Baltimore signed Cook to their practice squad to help with their playoff push.
Cook dealt with a shoulder injury in 2023 but looks to be healed from the injury that may have impacted him last season. Something must give in the running back room if Dallas signs the veteran.
Ezekiel Elliott was brought back to Dallas after a one-year hiatus in New England. The team also employs RB Rico Dowdle, who figures to be the back who shoulders the heaviest of the load in the rotation. Second-year backs Hunter Luepke and Deuce Vaughn are among the favorites to land a roster spot but the addition of Cook could complicate his situation.
Dallas could also choose to add Cook after the season begins to avoid guaranteeing his salary for the entire 2024 season.
After sitting out free agency, Dallas has been very active adding players in the last few weeks. Cook would be another big name added to owner Jerry Jones’ “All In” offseason.