According to Mike McCarthy, Dalvin Cook may not be getting much playing time with the Cowboys anytime soon.
Dalvin Cook may be waiting a while before making his debut with the Dallas Cowboys. In their Week 1 game, the Cowboys’ offense was lackluster.
Dak Prescott managed only 179 passing yards, and CeeDee Lamb’s impact diminished in the second half. Jake Ferguson also contributed little before leaving with a knee injury.
The performance against a strong Browns defense was anticipated, and the lopsided score allowed Mike McCarthy to take a conservative approach in the final two quarters. With the defense dominating, the offense only needed to maintain their lead.
Better performances are expected for Prescott, Lamb, and the passing game, but concerns persist about the rushing attack.
Despite Ezekiel Elliott’s solid return to Dallas, the RB-by-committee strategy fell short. Elliott, Rico Dowdle, and Deuce Vaughn, who had only one carry, averaged just 3.7 yards per attempt.
Although the Browns’ run defense is tough, the Cowboys’ patience with their current backs may be wearing thin.
Dalvin Cook, a four-time Pro Bowler, is on the practice squad and could be a potential solution. However, McCarthy’s recent comments suggest Cook might not see action soon.
McCarthy acknowledged Cook’s impressive abilities and fit with the team but indicated that Cook needs more time to adapt.
Cook, who joined the team in late August, needs to familiarize himself with McCarthy’s system and improve his conditioning after an offseason of solo training.
Typically, players who join a team post-preseason are not featured in the opener.
For example, former Cowboy Noah Brown, now with the Commanders, was a healthy scratch in Week 1.
Cook’s promotion for the upcoming game against the Saints remains uncertain. McCarthy’s remarks imply that Cook needs additional practice.
The Cowboys can activate a practice squad player up to three times before needing to sign them to the 53-man roster, and Cook may struggle to reach this threshold.
Despite his history of 1,000-yard seasons, Cook might have to wait before becoming a key part of the Cowboys’ offense.
