Dallas Cowboys running back Malik Davis has received a fine of $6,735 for an infraction that occurred during a preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals. The penalty was for unnecessary roughness related to illegal helmet use and took place in the first quarter of the Week 2 matchup, specifically at the 12:07 mark.
Although he gained five yards on the play, Davis was not penalized during the game.
The NFL typically announces all preseason fines after the exhibition games conclude, which is when this fine was disclosed. Davis was the only player from the Cowboys to receive a fine during the preseason. The highest fine issued in the league was to Cleveland Browns offensive tackle Tytus Howard, who faced a $12,537 penalty for unnecessary roughness in the first week of the preseason.
Davis is currently in the second year of a two-year contract worth $2.1 million, with a base salary of $1.1 million for 2026. The fine represents approximately 0.6% of his salary. The NFL states that all fines collected are donated to the Professional Athletes Foundation to support athletes in need and promote health and wellness in sports communities.
In terms of his role with the Cowboys, Davis secured the backup running back position behind Javonte Williams after a competitive offseason. Other contenders for the RB2 spot, including Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah, were cut from the roster. Blue has since joined the Philadelphia Eagles' practice squad, while Mafah remains a free agent.
