The Dallas Cowboys have changed their running back group after a 69-yard rushing performance against the New York Giants in Week 1. The team released Israel Abanikanda and added Tyler Goodson from the Atlanta Falcons.
Abanikanda, a former Pitt standout, appeared in six NFL games before his release, all with the New York Jets in 2023. He had not established a regular role in the league.
During his final college season in 2022, Abanikanda carried the ball 239 times for 1,431 yards and 20 touchdowns at Pitt. The Cowboys’ roster move created space for Goodson, though the source did not provide further details about Goodson’s role.
Dallas coach Brian Schottenheimer also addressed the team’s rushing problems after the loss. He said the Giants’ defensive front created too much penetration and that running back Javonte Williams encountered difficulty early in the game. Schottenheimer said the Cowboys made adjustments at halftime.
