Dalvin Cook is set to debut for the Dallas Cowboys against the 49ers, after being signed to the practice squad just before the season began. His addition comes as the Cowboys struggle with their running game, currently averaging a league-low 77.2 rushing yards per game.
This lack of ground success is highlighted by their ongoing streak of 20 games without a 100-yard rusher, the longest in franchise history. Head coach Mike McCarthy believes Cook is ready for the opportunity, which may offer the Cowboys a much-needed boost in their rushing attack.
In preparation for his debut, Cook has seen increased practice snaps with the first team in recent weeks. Known for his success with the Minnesota Vikings, where he posted four 1,000-yard seasons, Cook’s production slowed significantly last year with the Jets, where he logged only 214 yards in 15 games.
He also had a brief appearance in the playoffs with the Baltimore Ravens, rushing for 23 yards. Despite this recent dip in productivity, his veteran experience may prove valuable to the Cowboys as they look to revitalize their running game.
Cook’s elevation from the practice squad also raises questions regarding the Cowboys’ roster structure on game day, particularly their running back rotation. Rico Dowdle currently leads the team with 246 rushing yards, followed by Ezekiel Elliott with 115 yards.
However, the team will need to decide if they can dress three running backs who do not contribute to special teams, as they have done four times this season. This decision could impact the roles of other players like Deuce Vaughn, who has been inactive for the past two games, and fullback Hunter Luepke, who has been key to both the offense and special teams.
Elliott, a former lead back for Dallas, has rarely been a healthy scratch in his career, with his only absences occurring in end-of-season games where he was rested for the playoffs. The addition of Cook may further complicate Elliott’s role and the overall depth chart at running back, with the team needing to carefully balance talent and game-day needs.
McCarthy’s decision on whether to dress all three backs may ultimately depend on their anticipated game plan against the 49ers and the potential need for special teams contributors.
In a roster move, the Cowboys also placed tight end John Stephens Jr. on injured reserve after he tore his ACL in practice, ending his season. To fill the roster void, the Cowboys promoted cornerback Amani Oruwariye from the practice squad.
Oruwariye, who has appeared in the last three games, exhausted his practice squad elevations, making his promotion necessary for him to continue playing. These adjustments highlight the Cowboys’ current roster management as they prepare for the challenging matchup against the 49ers.
