Malik Davis has been ruled out of Dallas' season-opening game against the New York Giants after hurting his hip during Friday practice. He left the field in a cart, and the Cowboys planned further examinations. ESPN's Todd Archer first reported that Davis would miss the matchup.
Jeremy Fowler later reported, citing a source, that Dallas was preparing for a lengthy absence, with the source describing the injury as, "It's bad." The timeline for his return remains unknown.
Davis had emerged as a possible backfield contributor after gaining 68 yards on 12 preseason carries, a 5.7-yard average. He also scored a receiving touchdown.
Javonte Williams is expected to continue as Dallas' primary running back. In 16 starts during the 2025 season, he ran for 1,201 yards and 11 touchdowns on 252 attempts. Williams added 35 receptions for 137 yards and two receiving scores.
Emari Demercado could take on additional work. Dallas claimed him from the Kansas City Chiefs' waivers on Sept. 1. In three seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, he recorded 819 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 126 carries, plus 50 catches for 324 yards and one receiving touchdown.