Signed with the next team a month before the season began, Cook has waited patiently as the Cowboys’ operational play faltered. The Cowboys average 77.2 rushing yards per sport, lowest in the NFL, and have a franchise-record 20 games without a 100-yard rusher.
On Friday, educator Mike McCarthy said Cook was in position to take advantage of the opportunity.
In recent weeks, Cook has posted his snapshots with the main team. A four-time 1,000-yard rusher with the Minnesota Vikings, his career has stalled recently and he came close to gaining 214 yards in 15 games with the last-generation York Jets. He appeared in a playoff game for the Baltimore Ravens and had 23 yards.
The elevation of the trailing team raises questions about how the Cowboys will fill their playmaking backup spot.
Rico Dowdle leads the Cowboys with 246 yards and Ezekiel Elliott is second with 115 yards, but can the Cowboys suit up with three running backs who don’t play for specific teams?
They’ve dressed three running backs in four games, but Deuce Vaughn has been lazy through two games. Fullback Hunter Luepke has been a staple of the offense and certain teams.
Elliott has been a healthy bust in his career only when rested late in the regular season with the playoffs closer.
The Cowboys also placed tight end John Stephens Jr. at injured safety Saturday as he tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee in practice Wednesday. Cornerback Amani Oruwariye was signed once from the following team. He was out of the closest heights to playing in all three games.
