The Dallas Cowboys will be without running back Malik Davis for their season opener against the New York Giants after he injured his hip during practice. Davis was taken from the field by cart and was later ruled out of the game.
Davis had been competing for a larger role in Dallas’ backfield after a productive preseason. He carried 12 times for 68 yards, averaging 5.7 yards per attempt, and added a receiving touchdown.
ESPN’s Todd Archer reported that Davis was unavailable for the Giants game and was undergoing additional evaluation to determine the injury’s severity. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler later reported that the Cowboys were preparing for Davis to miss an extended period, citing a team source who said, “It’s bad.”
Javonte Williams is expected to remain Dallas’ leading back. During the 2025 season, Williams started 16 games and produced 1,201 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns on 252 carries. He also made 35 receptions for 137 yards and two receiving touchdowns.
Emari Demercado could receive more work behind Williams. Dallas claimed him off waivers from the Kansas City Chiefs on Sept. 1. Demercado previously spent three seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, where he recorded 819 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns on 126 carries, along with 50 catches for 324 yards and one receiving touchdown.
