The Dallas Cowboys have suffered a significant preseason setback with the news that running back Malik Davis underwent hip surgery on Sunday and will miss the entirety of the 2026 season. The announcement comes just days before the Cowboys' season opener against the New York Giants, leaving the team with one less depth option at the position.
In a separate development, the New York Giants have yet to confirm the availability of wide receiver Malik Nabers for their Week 1 matchup against Dallas. Nabers, who suffered an ACL tear in Week 4 of the 2025 season, participated in full contact practice but remains listed as "questionable" until three hours before kickoff. The Giants have scheduled a final workout to determine his status.
Immediate Impact on the Cowboys
Davis, a 27-year-old running back from Tampa, Florida, played in 10 games for the Cowboys last season. He set career highs with two touchdowns, 11 first-down rushes, 52 rushing attempts, and 250 rushing yards. His absence reduces the Cowboys' backfield depth as they prepare to face the Giants in their season opener.
The Cowboys may seek to address the loss by adding another running back to the roster in the coming days, though no official moves have been announced. The team has not commented on potential replacements or adjustments to their offensive strategy.
Giants' Nabers Situation Remains Uncertain
Nabers, a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, recorded 109 catches, 1,204 yards, and seven touchdowns as a rookie before his injury. His status for Week 1 has been a point of concern for fantasy football managers, particularly those who drafted him in the third round. The Giants have indicated they will not risk his long-term health, though they have not ruled out his participation.
If Nabers is unable to play, the Giants' receiving corps would feature Darnell Mooney and rookie Malachi Fields as primary options, with Odell Beckham Jr. as a veteran fallback. Beckham's role and workload remain uncertain due to his age and declining production.
Team Reactions and Next Steps
Neither the Cowboys nor the Giants have provided detailed statements regarding the implications of these developments. The Cowboys' coaching staff will need to adjust their game plan without Davis, while the Giants will finalize their lineup based on Nabers' final evaluation.
The season opener between the Cowboys and Giants is scheduled for Thursday, September 4, 2026, with kickoff at 8:15 p.m. ET. Further updates on Nabers' status are expected in the hours leading up to the game.