The Dallas Cowboys signed running back Israel Abanikanda from their practice squad after Malik Davis suffered a hip injury that will require surgery. Abanikanda is expected to serve as Dallas’ third running back. The move follows the team’s decision to waive Jaydon Blue at the end of the preseason and claim Emari Demercado from Kansas City.
Davis had been behind Javonte Williams on the depth chart while competing with Blue. Demercado is set to back up Williams against the New York Giants, while fullback Hunter Luepke remains on the roster. A projection for the matchup set the over-under at 48.5 points.
Nick Harris selected Dallas to win and forecast a score below that mark, pointing to the Cowboys’ experience, the opening week and possible weather conditions.
Coach Brian Schottenheimer said linebacker DeMarvion Overshown will handle much of the communication-helmet work for defensive calls, though other players are prepared for different packages. Blogging The Boys also reported Dallas is weighing offensive-line options after Washington released veteran tackle D.J. Humphries.
Arizona drafted Humphries 24th overall in 2015, and he became a full-time starter in 2016 before dealing with injuries through 2023. 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.
