Malik Davis will not play in the Dallas Cowboys’ season-opening game against the New York Giants after being injured during Friday’s practice. He left the field by cart, and further evaluations were planned. ESPN’s Todd Archer reported that Davis was out, while ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler said Dallas expected the absence could last an extended period.
Fowler cited a source who called the injury, “It’s bad.” No timetable has been established.
Davis had 12 preseason carries for 68 yards, averaging 5.7 yards per attempt, and added a receiving touchdown. Javonte Williams is expected to continue as the Cowboys’ top running back. In 16 starts during the 2025 season, Williams ran for 1,201 yards and 11 touchdowns on 252 carries. He also recorded 35 receptions for 137 yards and two touchdowns through the air.
Emari Demercado could see increased duties behind Williams. Dallas claimed him from the Kansas City Chiefs on Sept. 1. In his first three seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, Demercado totaled 819 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 126 carries, plus 50 catches for 324 yards and one receiving touchdown.
Hunter Luepke and practice-squad back Israel Abanikanda are other available options. Luepke has mainly played fullback, while Abanikanda previously played for the New York Jets. Sports.yahoo.com published the report Sept. 12, 2026.
