Dallas has added running back Israel Abanikanda after Malik Davis suffered a hip injury that will require surgery. Abanikanda is expected to take the Cowboys’ third running back spot, according to Blogging The Boys.
Davis had been behind Javonte Williams on the depth chart and kept that position through training camp while Jaydon Blue competed for the role. Dallas waived Blue after the preseason and claimed Emari Demercado from Kansas City. Demercado is set to back up Williams in the season opener against the New York Giants, while Hunter Luepke remains on the roster as a fullback.
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer also outlined the team’s plan for the defensive communication helmet. Fourth-year linebacker DeMarvion Overshown will handle much of the responsibility for relaying defensive calls, although other players could take over the assignment in certain packages.
The Cowboys’ matchup with the Giants has an over-under of 48.5 points. Nick Harris picked Dallas to win while predicting the game would finish below that total, citing the Cowboys’ experience and the possibility of weather affecting the opener.
Dallas is also evaluating its roster and future flexibility at other positions. Ryan Flournoy’s contract includes a $1.5 million base salary, a $500,000 roster bonus and $1.25 million in remaining signing-bonus proration for 2027. If he develops further, the team could have a potential trade asset, while moving him before the roster bonus is due would save Dallas about $2 million against the salary cap.
