The Dallas Cowboys are getting a key weapon back just in time for their Thanksgiving matchup against the New York Giants. Wide receiver Brandin Cooks has officially been activated from injured reserve, marking his return to the field after a two-month absence. Ironically, his first game back will be against the same Giants team the Cowboys defeated 20-15 in Week 4—the last time Cooks played.
In a corresponding move, the Cowboys placed cornerback Caelen Carson on injured reserve, after his shoulder injury has kept him out for several weeks, including the team’s Week 11 loss to the Washington Commanders.
Cooks, who had a solid start to the 2024 season with a touchdown in the Cowboys’ Week 1 victory over the Cleveland Browns, has since battled a knee infection that forced him onto injured reserve. While his return brings immediate excitement, the challenge for Cooks will be shaking off any rust after missing two months of action.
During Cooks’ absence, the Cowboys made a trade for wide receiver Jonathan Mingo, and KaVontae Turpin has shown offensive promise. Now, with Cooks back, the receiving corps looks deeper, though the quarterback situation is in flux. Dak Prescott is on season-ending injured reserve with a partially torn hamstring, meaning backup Cooper Rush will be throwing to Cooks. Rush and Cooks have had little opportunity to work together, as Rush’s last stint as the Cowboys’ starting QB came before Cooks was acquired.
The Cowboys (4-7) will be hoping to turn things around after a disappointing start to the season. A win on Thanksgiving would not only end their losing streak at home but also provide a much-needed boost for the offense with Cooks’ return. As Cooks looks to shake off the rust, he’s hoping to bring more than just the turkey to the table—he’s ready to deliver a big performance for his team in what will be a critical divisional matchup.
