Dallas moved Israel Abanikanda onto its active roster from the practice squad after Malik Davis suffered a hip injury requiring surgery. Abanikanda is expected to fill the Cowboys’ third-running-back role. Davis had been behind Javonte Williams on the depth chart and had competed with Jaydon Blue, whom Dallas waived after the preseason.
The Cowboys then picked up Emari Demercado from Kansas City, and he is expected to back up Williams against the New York Giants. Fullback Hunter Luepke is also on the roster.
The Dallas-New York game has an over-under of 48.5 points. Nick Harris selected Dallas to win and forecast a final score below that mark, pointing to the team’s experience, the season’s opening week and possible weather.
Coach Brian Schottenheimer said linebacker DeMarvion Overshown will handle much of the communication-helmet work for defensive calls, while other players are ready if defensive packages require a different relay option.
Dallas is reviewing offensive-line possibilities, including veteran tackle D.J. Humphries, who became available after Washington released him. Arizona drafted Humphries 24th overall in 2015, and he became a full-time starter in 2016 before dealing with injuries through 2023.
A report also reviewed Ryan Flournoy’s contract, which has a $1.5 million base salary, a $500,000 roster bonus and $1.25 million in remaining signing-bonus proration. Dallas could save about $2 million against the cap by trading him before the bonus is paid. A strong 2026 season could raise his trade value.
