:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69640101/usa_today_11954327.0.jpg)
The Dallas Cowboys returned to the practice field on Tuesday and did so with a new member on the defensive side of the ball. That’s right. It finally happened.
For about a week now it has been heavily assumed that free agent safety Malik Hooker would join the Cowboys and give them another option in the backend. As practice began on Tuesday he trotted out to the practice field wearing number 28 which seemed like a good sign.
Shortly after that it was officially reported that Hooker has joined the team. Dallas was at 90 players before Hooker joined which means they had to make a corresponding roster move. Mitch Hyatt, who started camp on the PUP list, has been moved to injured reserve.
Malik Hooker wearing No. 28 with the Cowboys pic.twitter.com/Hmod3yxUEC
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) July 27, 2021
The Cowboys have officially added Malik Hooker to the 90-man roster after his workout. Mitch Hyatt (knee) was placed on injured reserve to create the roster spot.
— Todd Archer (@toddarcher) July 27, 2021
Cowboys signed safety Malik Hooker following his workout today. He’s currently in stretch line with team. Been speaking with his new teammates and DC Dan Quinn. Hooker is No. 28. OT Mitch Hyatt (knee) moved from PUP to IR. pic.twitter.com/sCZBF11R8S
— Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) July 27, 2021
Hooker gives the Cowboys another new safety along with Damontae Kazee and Jayron Kearse, along with returning player Donovan Wilson. While there were only three training camp practices prior to Hooker’s arrival, there hadn’t been a ton of positive chatter about the safety group as a whole. Hopefully Hooker helps fix that.
The Cowboys are once again at 90 players on the roster which means if they want to do anything else they will have to make a corresponding move. Malik Hooker has arrived though, and that is very good news.