Image Source: NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth
Jerry Jones and the Dallas Cowboys are adjusting their running back depth chart after Malik Davis suffered a season-ending hip injury during practice. The Cowboys placed Davis on injured reserve Saturday and promoted Israel Abanikanda from the practice squad to the active roster.
The roster move comes just before Dallas opens its season against the New York Giants. Davis had been expected to serve as the team’s No. 2 running back behind Javonte Williams, making his injury a significant setback for the Cowboys’ offensive plans.
Jerry Jones and Cowboys Make Urgent Backfield Move
Davis sustained the injury during Friday’s practice and will require surgery, according to the report from NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth and The Associated Press. He held onto the backup position throughout training camp while competing with second-year running back Jaydon Blue, a former Texas standout.
With Davis unavailable, the Cowboys will turn to Emari Demercado as the primary backup behind Williams for Sunday’s season opener. Dallas also has fullback Hunter Luepke available as part of its offensive personnel.
The change leaves the Cowboys relying on a combination of experience, versatility and newly added depth. While the team has not announced any direct comments from Jerry Jones in the provided report, the move reflects the urgency facing Dallas just before the regular season begins.
Malik Davis’ Injury Changes Dallas’ Running Back Plan
Davis delivered solid production as Williams’ backup last season. He finished with 411 rushing yards and three touchdowns, giving the Cowboys a dependable option in the running game and a potential change-of-pace presence.
His absence could affect how Dallas manages carries, especially if Williams is asked to handle a larger workload. The Cowboys may also use Demercado in passing situations and special teams, depending on how the game develops against New York.
Demercado brings previous NFL experience to the position. He recorded 312 rushing yards during his third season with Arizona and has familiarity with Cowboys offensive coordinator Klayton Adams. The two worked together during Demercado’s first two seasons with the Cardinals.
Israel Abanikanda Adds Intriguing Depth
Abanikanda gives Dallas another young option in the backfield. The running back was selected by the New York Jets in the fifth round three years ago and joined the Cowboys’ practice squad last season.
His promotion does not necessarily mean he will immediately receive a major role on offense. However, moving him to the active roster provides the Cowboys with additional insurance and gives the coaching staff another player to evaluate during game preparation.
- Malik Davis: Placed on injured reserve after a season-ending hip injury.
- Javonte Williams: Expected to remain Dallas’ lead running back.
- Emari Demercado: Set to fill the primary backup role against the Giants.
- Israel Abanikanda: Promoted from the practice squad to the active roster.
- Hunter Luepke: Remains available as the team’s fullback.
What the Roster Shake-Up Means for the Cowboys
The injury creates an immediate challenge for Dallas because it removes a player who had established himself behind Williams during the offseason. The Cowboys waived Blue at the end of the preseason and later claimed Demercado off waivers from Kansas City, making the backfield’s current makeup notably different from the group that began training camp.
For Jerry Jones and the Cowboys, the priority is now maintaining offensive balance while avoiding an excessive workload for Williams. A reliable running game could help protect the quarterback, control the clock and reduce pressure on the offense during the opening weeks of the season.
The team’s backfield depth will be closely watched when Dallas faces the Giants. Demercado’s familiarity with Adams’ system could help him transition quickly, while Abanikanda may have an opportunity to prove he belongs on the active roster.
The Cowboys’ response also highlights how quickly NFL roster plans can change. One injury forced Dallas to place Davis on injured reserve, elevate Abanikanda and reorganize the backup running back responsibilities days before kickoff.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Malik Davis?
Malik Davis suffered a hip injury during practice on Friday. The injury requires surgery and will keep him out for the remainder of the season.
Who will back up Javonte Williams?
Emari Demercado is expected to serve as Williams’ primary backup in the Cowboys’ season opener against the New York Giants.
Who is Israel Abanikanda?
Israel Abanikanda is a former fifth-round pick of the New York Jets. He joined the Cowboys’ practice squad last season before being promoted to the active roster.
How did Malik Davis perform last season?
Davis rushed for 411 yards and three touchdowns as Williams’ backup last season.
Did Jerry Jones comment on the roster move?
The provided report does not include a direct comment from Jerry Jones. It focuses on Davis’ injury, Abanikanda’s promotion and Dallas’ updated running back depth chart.
