The Dallas Cowboys are bracing for what could be a challenging 2024 season, particularly in their passing game. Despite the team’s aspirations for a Super Bowl run, financial constraints and questionable roster moves could see them facing significant obstacles.
One such hurdle revolves around veteran receiver Brandin Cooks, whose recent performance raises concerns about his ability to support star wideout CeeDee Lamb effectively.
A Tough Spot for Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys have found themselves in a precarious financial position this offseason. With the payroll virtually maxed out for 2024, the options to enhance their squad, especially the wide receivers beyond All-Pro CeeDee Lamb, are severely limited. This situation places an immense amount of pressure on Brandin Cooks, who is set to be the team’s second option.
“Cooks had respectable counting stats this past season, with 54 receptions for 657 yards and eight touchdowns, but these numbers represent his lowest totals since 2019,” noted Bradley Locker from Pro Football Focus.
Despite his proven track record, there’s growing concern that Cooks may no longer deliver the same impact, particularly at an age where most players face a decline.
This just in: Dallas is not making a head-coaching change and Cowboys’ HC Mike McCarthy is returning for the 2024 season, per sources. pic.twitter.com/GHMJuqdxaT
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 18, 2024
Analyzing Brandin Cooks’ Declining Metrics
Locker highlighted some worrying trends in Cooks’ recent performances. “Cooks’ 2.3 yards after the catch per reception was the worst mark of his career, as was his 1.19 yards per route run figure,” he explained. These metrics, significantly lower than his peak years, suggest that Cooks might struggle to fulfill the role of a primary receiver behind Lamb.
From 2020 to 2022, Cooks consistently performed at a high level, never dipping below a 71.9 receiving grade or 1.64 yards per route run. The decline in these deeper metrics is a red flag for the Cowboys, who have increased Cooks’ responsibilities by releasing Michael Gallup, a former 1,000-yard receiver, as a cap casualty.
Implications of Cut Gallup’s Departure
The decision to cut Gallup has put additional strain on an already tenuous passing attack. “Dallas cutting Gallup as a cap casualty and failing to replace him adequately puts Cooks and the passing attack in a tough spot,” Locker remarked.
Entering his age-31 season with the worst performance of his decade-long NFL career just behind him, Cooks faces a daunting task in meeting the Cowboys’ high expectations.
What Lies Ahead for the Dallas Cowboys?
As the 2024 season approaches, Cowboys fans might need to temper their expectations. The team’s reliance on an aging Cooks, coupled with financial limitations, could potentially derail their offensive efficacy.
The pressure on Cooks to rebound from a lackluster year and support Lamb effectively is immense, posing a significant challenge for Dallas as they aim to compete at the highest levels. In conclusion, the Cowboys’ upcoming season could be telling of how well they can manage with limited resources and an aging roster.
The performance of Brandin Cooks will undoubtedly be a critical factor in their success or failure. Dallas fans and management alike will be watching closely, hoping for a turnaround that could stabilize their championship aspirations.
