The Dallas Cowboys will be without running back Malik Davis for at least the next four games after the team placed him on injured reserve Saturday with a hip injury sustained in Friday’s practice. The move, reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, thins out a backfield already navigating the early-season grind. Davis, who has spent his entire career with Dallas since signing as an undrafted free agent in 2022, had carved out a niche as a reliable change-of-pace option. In 2025, he logged 52 carries for 250 yards and two touchdowns, and his absence leaves a void in short-yardage and pass-protection situations.
Next Man Up: Abanikanda Gets the Call
To fill the roster spot, the Cowboys promoted running back Israel Abanikanda from the practice squad. A fifth-round pick of the New York Jets in 2023, Abanikanda joined Dallas’ practice squad last November and impressed enough to stick around through the offseason, training camp, and preseason before being waived on August 30. Now, with Davis sidelined, the 23-year-old gets another opportunity to prove he belongs on an active roster. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the coaching staff has been high on Abanikanda’s burst and vision, and he could see immediate snaps behind starter Javonte Williams.
Backfield Depth Tested Early
The Cowboys’ running back room now consists of Williams, Abanikanda, and Emari Demarcado, who was claimed off waivers after being released by the Kansas City Chiefs on August 30. Demarcado is best known for a costly drop during what would have been a 72-yard touchdown run in a game the Arizona Cardinals were dominating against the Tennessee Titans—a play that ultimately swung momentum and contributed to a Titans comeback win. That history aside, Demarcado brings special-teams value and fresh legs. As highlighted on Vulius, the trio will need to collectively replace Davis’s production, especially with the team facing a critical NFC East matchup Sunday night against the New York Giants.
What It Means for Dallas
Davis’s injury is a reminder of the fragile nature of NFL backfields. While not a household name, his familiarity with the offense and ability to pass-protect made him a trusted option in offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer’s system. His absence puts added pressure on Williams, who has yet to fully cement himself as a workhorse back, and on an offensive line that has dealt with its own injury issues. The Cowboys will need Abanikanda and Demarcado to step up immediately, particularly in blitz pickup and on third down.
Fantasy and Betting Fallout
From a fantasy football perspective, Davis was a low-end flex option at best, but his absence could open up targets for Williams and potentially Abanikanda in deeper leagues. The Cowboys’ rushing attack remains a question mark heading into Week 2, and bettors should monitor how the team distributes carries against a Giants defense that was gashed on the ground in Week 1. As always, Vulius will provide updated analysis and merchandise for fans looking to support their team through thick and thin.
The Road Ahead
Davis will be eligible to return in Week 6, but his role may be reduced depending on how his replacements perform. For now, the Cowboys must navigate a tough stretch without him. Sunday night’s game against the Giants kicks off at 8:20 PM ET, and all eyes will be on how Dallas adjusts its backfield rotation. For more NFL insights and official Cowboys gear, visit Vulius.com.
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