Cowboys player carted off practice field expected to miss ‘significant time’ according to Stephen Jones

The Dallas Cowboys have suffered a potentially significant injury just days before their NFL season opener against the New York Giants .

Running back Malik Davis was carted off the practice field Friday, and Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones indicated the injury could keep him sidelined for an extended period.

Aug 1, 2026; Oxnard, CA, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Malik Davis (20) carries the ball at training camp at River Ridge Playing Fields. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)

Davis was forced to leave Friday's practice after suffering a hip injury, and the Cowboys quickly ruled him out for Sunday night's opener. The initial concern surrounding the injury was confirmed when Jones described it as "pretty serious" and said it could keep Davis out for "some period of time." The team was still awaiting final details on the injury.

That is a brutal development for Davis, who had seemingly earned a major opportunity in Dallas.

After battling Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah throughout training camp and the preseason, Davis emerged as the Cowboys' No. 2 running back behind Javonte Williams . He was expected to receive meaningful touches in a backfield that was already relatively thin.

Now, Dallas could be forced to completely change its plans.

Cowboys suddenly have a major problem at running back

Jun 16, 2026; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys running back Malik Davis (20) goes through a drill during practice at the Ford Center at the Star Training Facility in Frisco, Texas. Mandatory Credit: Chris Jones-Imagn Images

With Davis unavailable, Emari Demercado is expected to take on a significantly larger role behind Williams. Demercado was claimed off waivers by Dallas on Aug. 31 and was already the only other traditional running back on the 53-man roster.

The Cowboys do have Israel Abanikanda on the practice squad, meaning he could potentially be elevated for Sunday's game against the Giants. Dallas could also explore adding another veteran running back if Davis is ultimately facing a lengthy absence.

For Williams, the injury could mean far more work immediately. Dallas did not necessarily enter the season planning to make him a true workhorse back, but Davis' injury could force that issue right away.

Losing a player who had just won the RB2 job days before Week 1 is a major blow for Dallas, and if Davis truly misses significant time, the Cowboys will have to find another solution quickly.