The Dallas Cowboys finalized the core of their 2026 practice squad, retaining familiar faces like versatile defensive back Reddy Steward and running back Israel Abanikanda as the franchise builds depth ahead of its regular-season opener against the New York Giants.
Building an NFL roster rarely happens in a single fell swoop. Players who clear waivers become free agents able to sign anywhere, giving front offices a second chance to secure developmental pieces. For Dallas, that process means locking down a 17-man group—including the International Pathway Player exemption—heavily populated by players from their own training camp roster.
Familiar Faces Return to Frisco for 2026 Development
Coaches value his strong nickel cornerback skills and his capacity to slide back into safety if called upon.
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The running back room also takes shape with the inclusion of Israel Abanikanda. After stints bouncing across waivers with the San Francisco 49ers and Green Bay Packers, the young runner now settles in North Texas to bolster the Cowboys’ backfield depth.
Filling Out the Roster With Camp Standouts and Insurance Policies
The practice squad additions stretch across multiple position groups as the coaching staff prepares for the grind. Justin Barron returns to shore up the linebackers following a standout training camp performance, while tight ends coach Lunda Wells enters the autumn energized by the raw athleticism of tight end Michael Trigg out of Baylor.
Along the trenches, defensive tackle Tommy Dunn provides vital insurance after narrowly missing the initial 53-man cut. Seventh-round pick Anthony Smith, known for his explosive speed out of East Carolina, retains a spot to keep refining his craft inside a crowded wide receiver room.
The initial wave of practice squad signings also includes:
- Jordan Hudson (WR – Southern Methodist)
- Marcellus Johnson (T – Missouri)
- Derion Kendrick (DB – Georgia)
- Isaiah Land (LB – Florida A&M)
- Curtis Robinson (LB – Stanford)
- Adedayo Odeleye (DT – No College)
- Wanya Morris (OT – Oklahoma)
- Elijah Garcia (DT – Rice)
With roughly two weeks remaining before kickoff, expect the front office and coaching staff to continue fine-tuning the edges of both the active roster and the practice unit.
