Malik Davis has been ruled out of the Dallas Cowboys’ season-opening game against the New York Giants because of a hip injury suffered during Friday practice. A cart transported Davis from the field, and further evaluations were planned. The report was published by sports.yahoo.com on Sept. 12, 2026.
ESPN’s Todd Archer reported that Davis would not play. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler later said Dallas was preparing for a potentially lengthy absence, citing a source who described the injury as “bad.” The timetable remains unknown. Davis had 12 preseason carries for 68 yards, averaging 5.7 yards per attempt, and added a touchdown as a receiver.
Javonte Williams is expected to continue as Dallas’ top running back. In 16 starts during the 2025 season, he rushed 252 times for 1,201 yards and 11 touchdowns. Williams also recorded 35 receptions totaling 137 yards and two receiving touchdowns.
Emari Demercado may take on more work behind Williams. Dallas claimed him from the Kansas City Chiefs on Sept. 1. Demercado spent his first three seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, gaining 819 yards and three touchdowns on 126 rushing attempts, plus 50 catches for 324 yards and one receiving score.
Hunter Luepke and practice-squad back Israel Abanikanda are other available options. Luepke has mainly played fullback, while Abanikanda previously played for the New York Jets.
