The Dallas Cowboys signed running back Israel Abanikanda from their practice squad after Malik Davis suffered a hip injury that will require surgery. Abanikanda is expected to be Dallas’ third running back. Davis had been behind Javonte Williams through training camp while competing with Jaydon Blue for the No. 2 role.
Dallas waived Blue at the end of the preseason and later claimed Emari Demercado from Kansas City. Demercado is scheduled to work behind Williams in the season opener at the New York Giants, while fullback Hunter Luepke remains on the roster. A projection for the matchup set the total at 48.5 points.
Nick Harris selected Dallas to win and forecast a score below that mark, pointing to the Cowboys’ experience, the opening week and possible weather.
Coach Brian Schottenheimer said linebacker DeMarvion Overshown will handle much of the communication-helmet work for defensive calls. Schottenheimer said other players are ready to take over in packages that require different assignments. Dallas is also weighing offensive-line options, including veteran tackle D.J.
Humphries, who became available after Washington released him. Arizona drafted Humphries 24th overall in 2015; he became a full-time starter in 2016 and had injury issues with the Cardinals through 2023.
