The Cowboys released running back Israel Abanikanda and added Tyler Goodson after Dallas produced 69 rushing yards against the New York Giants in Week 1. Goodson came to the team from the Atlanta Falcons as Dallas made another move involving its backfield.
Abanikanda, who played six NFL games with the New York Jets in 2023, did not establish a regular role in the league before his release. He previously had a strong final season at Pitt, carrying 239 times for 1,431 yards and 20 touchdowns in 2022.
Dallas coach Brian Schottenheimer also addressed the team's performance against the Giants. He said New York's defensive front created too much disruption early and that the Cowboys were physically outplayed at the line of scrimmage.
Schottenheimer said Javonte Williams had difficulty finding running room early in the game, while the team made adjustments after halftime. He described the result as a team-wide issue rather than one limited to a single player.
