The Cowboys signed running back Israel Abanikanda after Malik Davis suffered a hip injury that requires surgery. Abanikanda is expected to become Dallas’ third running back, following the loss of Davis, who had held the No. 2 spot behind Javonte Williams through training camp.
Jaydon Blue, a second-year back from Texas, competed with Davis for that role before Dallas waived Blue at the end of the preseason. The team then claimed Emari Demercado from Kansas City. Demercado is set to work behind Williams in the season opener against the New York Giants. Fullback Hunter Luepke is also on the roster.
Dallas also announced a plan for its defensive communication helmet. Coach Brian Schottenheimer said linebacker DeMarvion Overshown will handle much of the responsibility for relaying defensive calls, although other players may take over in certain packages.
One prediction included in the coverage put the game’s over-under at 48.5 points. Nick Harris picked the Cowboys to win and predicted the total would remain below that mark, citing Dallas’ experience against the Giants’ offense, the early point in the season and possible weather conditions.
The coverage also examined Ryan Flournoy’s contract and his potential value to Dallas in 2027. His deal includes a $1.5 million base salary, a $500,000 roster bonus and $1.25 million in remaining signing-bonus proration for that year.
