Cowboys Reshape Roster, Running Back Depth Impacted After Trade deadline
The Dallas Cowboys have made notable changes to their roster in the wake of bolstering their defense before the NFL trade deadline, resulting in the release of running back Malik Davis. This move signals a shift in focus towards solidifying the team’s offensive depth as they prepare for the second half of the season.The Cowboys recently acquired Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Logan Wilson and New York Jets defensive lineman Quinnen Williams in meaningful trades.
Roster Adjustments and Davis’ Departure
The Cowboys announced on Tuesday that Malik Davis had been waived following their Week 9 contest against the Arizona Cardinals, a game Dallas lost 27-17. davis was elevated from the practice squad for the game, seeing limited action with one carry for three yards and playing 19 total snaps on offense and special teams. He had been with the cowboys for 18 career games.
The decision to release Davis directly correlates with the need to create roster space following the acquisitions of Wilson and Williams, key additions aimed at strengthening the Cowboys’ defensive capabilities. According to Spotrac, the Cowboys have approximately $10.5 million in cap space remaining, allowing them to absorb the contracts of the newly acquired players.
Impact on the running back Room
With Davis no longer on the roster, the Cowboys face questions about the depth behind starting running back Javonte Williams. The team is already without Miles Sanders for the remainder of the season due to injury. Rookie Jaydon Blue, a fifth-round draft pick from Texas, has seen limited playing time and was a healthy scratch in the game against Arizona.
Blue, who has 22 carries for 65 yards this season, now has an opportunity to demonstrate his potential during the upcoming bye week and earn a more significant role in the offense. Experts suggest that the Cowboys may also consider bringing Davis back to the practice squad,providing insurance at the position.
Here’s a speedy look at the Cowboys’ current running back situation:
| Player | Status | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Javonte Williams | Starter | 3 Seasons |
| Jaydon Blue | Backup | Rookie |
| Miles Sanders | Injured Reserve | 5 Seasons |
| Malik Davis | Waived | 2 Seasons |
Did You Know? The Dallas Cowboys have historically prioritized a strong running game, with notable rushers like Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard leading the league in yards during their tenures.
Pro Tip: Monitoring the Cowboys’ running back situation is crucial for fantasy football owners, as any change in the depth chart can significantly impact player value.
NFL Trade Deadline Trends
The 2025 NFL trade deadline saw increased activity compared to previous years,with teams aggressively pursuing upgrades to address weaknesses and position themselves for a playoff run. The Dallas Cowboys’ moves are indicative of this trend, prioritizing defensive improvements to complement their existing offensive firepower. According to ESPN Stats & Info, over 20 players were traded leading up to the deadline, a significant increase from the previous season.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Cowboys’ Roster Moves
- What prompted the Cowboys to waive Malik Davis? The cowboys waived Davis to create roster space following their trades for Logan Wilson and Quinnen Williams.
- Who is likely to be the backup running back for the Cowboys? Currently, Jaydon Blue is positioned to be the primary backup to Javonte Williams.
- Will the Cowboys re-sign Malik Davis? It’s possible the Cowboys will bring Davis back to the practice squad for depth.
- How do these trades impact the Cowboys’ overall playoff chances? Adding defensive talent like Wilson and Williams significantly improves the Cowboys’ defensive capabilities, increasing their chances of a deep playoff run.
- What is the significance of the NFL trade deadline? The trade deadline allows teams to make adjustments to their rosters in an attempt to improve their performance and contend for a championship.
What are yoru thoughts on the Cowboys’ recent roster moves? Do you think Jaydon Blue is ready to step up as a reliable backup running back? Share your opinions in the comments below!
