Dallas – The Dallas Cowboys announced that backup running back Malik Davis will undergo hip surgery on Saturday and will be placed on injured reserve, according to ESPN. Davis, 27, suffered the injury during a practice session on Friday and was carted off the field by team staff.
Coach and front office reaction
“Unfortunately, I think he’s looking at a pretty serious injury that could take him out for some period of time,” Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones told 105.3 The Fan. “We don’t have the final details; we’ll know more, but certainly so disappointed for Malik.”
Davis’ contributions last season
During the 2025 season, Davis served as the primary backup to starter Javonte Williams. He logged 52 carries for 250 yards and two touchdowns across ten games. Over his two‑year tenure with Dallas, he has rushed 90 times for 411 yards and three scores in 25 career games.
Who steps up next?
With Davis sidelined, the Cowboys have turned to Emari Demercado, a recent waiver claim, to fill the backup role. Demercado is expected to be the primary reserve behind Williams for the season‑opening matchup against the New York Giants in East Rutherford, N.J., on Sunday night.
Impact on the Cowboys’ backfield
The loss of Davis removes a reliable depth piece from the Cowboys’ rushing attack. While Williams remains the featured back, the team will need to rely on Demercado’s ability to handle a heavier workload in the early weeks of the season. The coaching staff has indicated confidence in Demercado’s readiness, noting his experience in previous NFL and practice‑squad roles.
Looking ahead
The Cowboys will monitor Davis’s recovery closely. Hip surgery can vary in recovery time, but the team’s medical staff will provide updates as Davis progresses through rehabilitation. In the meantime, Dallas fans can expect the backfield to adjust quickly as the season gets underway.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
