Dalvin Cook Set to Make Dallas Cowboys Debut Against 49ers in Week 8

The Dallas Cowboys, struggling with the NFL‘s worst rushing offense, are considering elevating four-time Pro Bowl running back Dalvin Cook from the practice squad for their Week 8 game against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday Night Football. Cook, who signed with the Cowboys on August 29, has been working diligently to get up to speed with the team’s offense.

Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy expressed his satisfaction with Cook’s progress, stating, “Dalvin is ready [to play]. I really like the work that he’s putting in. I think he’s clearly crossed over the threshold of the communication and the understanding [of the offense].”

The Cowboys’ rushing offense has been dismal, averaging just 77.2 yards per game, the lowest in the NFL. This marks the worst rushing average for the team through its first six games since 1989. Cook’s addition could provide a much-needed boost, given his impressive track record with the Minnesota Vikings, where he earned four Pro Bowl selections and rushed for at least 1,135 yards in each of those four seasons from 2019 to 2022.

Cook’s 2023 season was less successful, with career lows in rushing yards (214), touchdowns (0), and yards per carry (3.2) while playing for the New York Jets. He later joined the Baltimore Ravens but saw limited action. Despite this, the Cowboys are hopeful that Cook can regain his form and contribute significantly to their backfield, which currently includes Rico Dowdle, Ezekiel Elliott, and Hunter Luepke.

The upcoming game against the 49ers is crucial for the Cowboys, who are looking to break a three-game losing streak. Their past encounters with the 49ers have not been favorable, including a 42-10 loss in Week 5 of the previous season.