Syed Talib
Updated on: October 15, 2024 7:36 pm GMT
As the Dallas Cowboys prepare for their crucial Week 4 matchup against the New York Giants, a storm is brewing over the absence of running back Dalvin Cook. After a shaky start to the season, the Cowboys are looking for a way to revive their struggling rushing attack, but Cook will not be part of the solution just yet. This decision raises questions about the Cowboys’ strategy and Cook’s role in the team moving forward.
Cook’s Status with the Cowboys
Larry Jones, the owner of the Dallas Cowboys, recently confirmed that Dalvin Cook will not play in Thursday’s crucial game. This announcement came as fans hoped Cook would be elevated from the practice squad to help remedy the Cowboys’ lackluster rushing performance. Dallas ranks 30th in the NFL in rushing offense with an average of just 73.7 yards per game after the first three weeks.
Jones cited the short turnaround from the previous week as a primary reason for Cook’s absence. The team had a dismal outing against the Baltimore Ravens, with their running backs managing only 51 yards on 16 carries. After this performance, the expectation was that Cook could provide a much-needed spark.
Kareem Hunt’s Impact
In a twist that may add further frustration for Cook, the Kansas City Chiefs recently signed running back Kareem Hunt to their 53-man roster. The Chiefs had previously brought Hunt in to bolster their running back group after Isiah Pacheco was injured. Hunt’s swift promotion from the practice squad serves as a stark reminder of how quickly opportunities can shift in the NFL — especially while Cook remains sidelined in Dallas.
Cook, who joined the Cowboys’ practice squad on August 28, 2023, is still waiting for his chance to contribute. As a former Pro Bowl running back, he has the talent to make an impact, and the lack of playing time is likely weighing heavily on him.
The Cowboys’ Rushing Struggles
While the team has been able to garner attention for its defense, the offensive struggles cannot be overlooked. Here’s how the rushing game has fared:
- Current ranking: 30th in the NFL
- Average rushing yards per game: 73.7
- Combined rushing yards from all running backs against the Ravens: 51
These numbers showcase a glaring need for improvement. The Cowboys’ inability to establish a reliable running game puts additional pressure on quarterback Dak Prescott and the passing attack. If the team continues down this path, the possibility of further disappointment looms large.
The Outlook for Cook and the Cowboys
With Cook unable to contribute to the game against the Giants, the focus shifts to how the Cowboys will manage their roster. Fans and commentators alike have expressed frustration at the team’s reluctance to utilize one of the more prolific running backs in recent history. The pressure on Jerry Jones and the coaching staff mounts as they must find a balance between maintaining a competitive roster and getting the most out of available talent.
There is no doubt that Cook is eager to prove himself after a difficult previous season, where he rushed for just 214 yards without any touchdowns with the New York Jets and Baltimore Ravens. The former star running back hopes to showcase his abilities and shake off the label of being “washed,” which critics have hastily assigned him.
The Cowboys Moving Forward
As the season progresses, several factors will determine how the Cowboys manage Cook and the rest of their backfield. Some potential strategies include:
- Promoting Cook to the active roster as the season advances
- Exploring trade opportunities if other players outperform Cook in practice
- Evaluating the performance of the current running backs and adjusting schemes
Each option brings its own set of challenges and opportunities for the team.
Conclusion
The Dallas Cowboys really need to improve their running game, and not having Dalvin Cook makes things even tougher. Other teams, like the Kansas City Chiefs, are getting stronger by signing experienced players, while the Cowboys are feeling the pressure. As they get ready for Week 4, fans are hoping the team can figure things out. It’s unclear if Cook will get a chance to play or if the Cowboys will keep having problems in an important part of their game.
