The Dallas Cowboys signed running back Israel Abanikanda off their practice squad after Malik Davis suffered a hip injury that requires surgery. Abanikanda is projected to be Dallas’ third running back. Davis had been behind Javonte Williams on the depth chart during training camp while competing with second-year back Jaydon Blue.
Dallas waived Blue after the preseason, then claimed Emari Demercado from Kansas City. Demercado is expected to back up Williams in the season opener at the New York Giants, with fullback Hunter Luepke also on the roster.
The Dallas-New York projection set the game’s total at 48.5 points. Nick Harris selected Dallas to win but forecast a score below that mark, pointing to the Cowboys’ experience, the start of the season and weather that could affect the matchup. Coach Brian Schottenheimer said linebacker DeMarvion Overshown will take on much of the communication-helmet work for defensive calls.
He said other players are ready to take over when defensive packages require it.
Dallas is also weighing offensive-line options, Blogging The Boys reported. Veteran tackle D.J. Humphries became available when Washington released him.
Arizona drafted him 24th overall in 2015; he became a full-time starter in 2016 and dealt with injuries through 2023. Receiver Ryan Flournoy’s contract includes a $1.5 million base salary, a $500,000 roster bonus and $1.25 million in remaining signing-bonus proration.
