Shift in Momentum:: Jaydon Blue, previously favored to secure the second back spot, has struggled to separate himself, while Malik Davis has capitalized on limited playing time with efficient performance.
Coach Approval:: Head Coach Brian Schottenheimer explicitly praised Davis for his consistency and football IQ, stating the group has "earned" first-team reps due to their competition level.
Injury Impacts:: Both Jaydon Blue (shoulder) and Phil Mafah have been limited during practice, handing Davis and Israel Abanikanda significant workload opportunities.
Abanikanda's Speed:: Coach Schottenheimer highlighted Israel Abanikanda's elite speed and power, noting he is a "finisher" who becomes dangerous when space opens up.
Historical Context:: Malik Davis has spent years overcoming adversity—moving through waivers and the practice squad—to reach this juncture, proving he responds well to every opportunity given.
Malik Davis, a fourth-year running back originally signed as an undrafted free agent (UDFA), has established himself as the model of reliability in a volatile running back unit. After finishing the 2025 season with a respectable 4.8 yards per carry across 10 games, Davis enters this camp as a player who simply does not make mistakes.
Unlike some peers whose camps were flashy but inefficient, Davis’s approach has been methodical. Quarterback Dak Prescott noted, "You can't deny someone who shows up each and every day." This reliability has caught the coaching staff's attention, with Schottenheimer emphasizing Davis's versatility: "He's a good football player, good on offense, good on special teams, good in pass protection, good runner."
Jaydon Blue entered camp with high expectations to form a "Thunder and Lightning" duo with Javonte Williams. However, he has yet to show the explosive playmaking ability required to justify that label. Following a lackluster debut against the Seahawks and dealing with a current shoulder injury, Blue faces an uphill battle. To maintain his standing before the 53-man roster cuts, he must produce impactful plays in the upcoming matchup against Arizona.
While the debate often focuses on Davis versus Blue, wide receiver-turned-running-back Israel Abanikanda is making waves. Described as a "big, powerful man that runs hard," Abanikanda impressed during joint practices against the Saints. Schottenheimer remarked that they haven't even seen Abanikanda's true top speed in live action yet, suggesting a high ceiling for offensive production if healthy.
With head-to-head competition heating up and key players resting to avoid injuries, the Cowboys are testing their depth. For a team contending for a Super Bowl, having dynamic legs off the bench is crucial. The upcoming game against the Cardinals serves as a major litmus test:
If Blue produces: He might salvage his RB2 case.
If Davis continues efficiency: His veteran presence and reliability could secure the primary backup role.
If Abanikanda flashes explosiveness: He forces the staff to reconsider the composition of the backfield.
Who is starting at running back for the Cowboys?
Javonte Williams is the established starter leading the backfield.
Why is Jaydon Blue losing reps?
Blue has been limited due to a shoulder injury and was outperformed in open competition by Davis and Abanikanda.
What are Malik Davis's strengths according to coaches?
Coach Schottenheimer cites Davis's consistency, reliability in pass protection, and overall smart play on offense and special teams.
How can fans support Malik Davis's cause?
Share this article on social media to highlight his hard work and potential impact on the 53-man roster!
Monitor Preseason Week 2: The game against the Arizona Cardinals is critical for fantasy relevance and roster certainty. Pay close attention to snap counts for all three contenders.
Fantasy Football Caution: While Javonte Williams is the clear favorite, owners should monitor waiver wires closely. If Davis secures the RB2 spot significantly, his volume could spike in late-game scenarios.
Understand Team Culture: The Cowboys value grit and consistency over flash in this specific backfield situation, as evidenced by the praise directed toward UDFA veterans over highly-touted college stars.
The Dallas Cowboys running back room remains fluid right up until Sunday's game.
As we head into the final roster crunch:
Who do you believe deserves the RB2 slot? Malik Davis for his reliability, Jaydon Blue for his raw talent, or Israel Abanikanda for his hidden speed?
Share your thoughts in the comments below!
*Share this with others who need to stay ahead of this trend!*
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