Malik Davis has been ruled out of the Dallas Cowboys' season-opening game against the New York Giants after hurting his hip during Friday's practice. He was removed from the field by cart, and further evaluations were planned. The expected length of his absence remains unknown.
ESPN's Todd Archer reported Davis would not play against New York. ESPN's Jeremy Fowler later said Dallas was preparing for an extended absence, citing a source who described the injury as, “It’s bad.” Davis had been expected to help the Cowboys after rushing 12 times for 68 yards, averaging 5.7 yards per carry, and scoring a receiving touchdown during the preseason.
Javonte Williams is expected to continue as Dallas' top running back. In 16 starts during the 2025 season, Williams ran for 1,201 yards and 11 touchdowns on 252 carries. He added 35 receptions for 137 yards and two receiving touchdowns.
Emari Demercado may take on a larger role behind Williams. Dallas claimed him on Sept. 1 after he was waived by the Kansas City Chiefs. In three seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, Demercado had 819 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 126 carries, plus 50 catches for 324 yards and one receiving touchdown.
Hunter Luepke and practice-squad running back Israel Abanikanda are also available. Luepke has mostly played fullback but has taken running-back snaps, while Abanikanda previously played for the New York Jets. The report was published by sports.yahoo.com on Sept. 12, 2026.
