Dallas Cowboys running back Malik Davis has been fined $6,735 for an unnecessary roughness infraction during a preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals. The incident took place in the first quarter at the 12:07 mark when Davis gained five yards on a carry.
Although he did not receive a penalty during the game, the NFL subsequently issued the fine as part of its standard procedures for preseason infractions.
Davis is the only player from the Cowboys to face a fine during the preseason. The highest fine during this period was given to Cleveland Browns offensive tackle Tytus Howard, who was penalized $12,537 for a similar offense. Currently, Davis is in the second year of a two-year, $2.1 million contract, with a base salary of $1.1 million for 2026.
This fine represents about 0.6% of his salary. All fines collected by the NFL are donated to the Professional Athletes Foundation, which supports athletes in need and promotes health and safety initiatives.
Davis has been competing for the backup running back position against teammates Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah. After the roster was finalized, Blue was cut, and Mafah remains a free agent, allowing Davis to secure the backup role behind starting running back Javonte Williams.