Malik Davis will miss the season after a hip injury during Friday’s practice led to surgery later that night. The running back is headed to season-ending injured reserve, according to the Dallas Cowboys.
Davis was taken from the practice field by cart during the non-contact session at The Star. The workout was described as slightly more demanding than a walk-through. Further details about the injury were not provided.
The injury came after Davis secured the No. 2 running back position behind Javonte Williams following a close competition that continued through most of August. He had performed well during training camp and the preseason and was expected to contribute to the offensive plan against the Giants on Sunday.
Stephen Jones, the Cowboys’ chief operating officer, called the development disappointing in an interview with 105.3 The Fan. Jones said Davis had earned his role through his work and that the team would have to rely on other players.
Emari Demercado, who was added as the third running back for depth and special teams, is among the players who could see more responsibility. The team could also use Israel Abanikanda, who is on the practice squad, either by elevating him for a game or moving him to the active roster.
Davis backed up Williams last season and ran for 252 yards and two touchdowns. He joined the Cowboys as an undrafted free agent in 2022, played in 12 games as a rookie and gained 161 yards, then spent the following two seasons on the practice squad.
