Full Breakdown
Dallas Cowboys Lose Backup Running Back Malik Davis to Hip Injury
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
Dallas announced that running back Malik Davis was carted off during Friday’s practice after sustaining a hip injury described as “pretty serious.” The injury will keep him out of the season-opening matchup against the New York Giants and could sideline him for an extended period. The team indicated that Davis will be placed on season-ending injured reserve.
Background and Role
Davis earned the No. 2 running-back spot behind starter Javonte Williams after a competitive training camp that saw him edge out fellow backs Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah. He was expected to contribute both as a ball carrier and on special-teams units, having served as a “core four” player on kickoff and punt coverage.
Performance Statistics
- Preseason (2024): 68 rushing yards on 12 carries and one 8-yard touchdown reception.
- 2025 regular season: 250 rushing yards on 52 carries with two touchdowns, including a 103-yard game against the Washington Commanders on Christmas Day.
These numbers illustrate Davis’s growing involvement in the Cowboys’ offense.
Official Statements & Responses
He added that the Cowboys will rely on depth at running back, highlighting the need for additional contributors. The organization also noted that veteran Emari Demercado, claimed off waivers from the Kansas City Chiefs, and practice-squad player Israel Abanikanda are available to fill the void.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Unfortunately, I think he’s looking at a pretty serious injury that could take him out for some period of time,” — Stephen Jones, executive vice president
Roster Implications and Potential Replacements
With Davis unavailable, the Cowboys are likely to increase Demercado’s role; he recorded 819 rushing yards and three touchdowns over three seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, plus 50 receptions for 324 yards. Israel Abanikanda could be elevated from the practice squad for game-day activation. Media analysts have suggested additional options, including veteran running backs Austin Ekeler, Michael Carter, and former Cowboys seventh-round pick Phil Mafah, though no formal pursuit has been confirmed by the team.
What’s Next
The Cowboys will open the season against the New York Giants without Davis, relying on the remaining backs to execute the offensive game plan. The team is expected to file Davis’s season-ending injured-reserve designation in the coming days, prompting further evaluation of the running-back depth chart ahead of the first regular-season game.
