Dallas Cowboys running back Israel Abanikanda was elevated from the practice squad to serve as Javonte Williams’ primary backup for Week 10, according to Dallas Cowboys On SI.
The roster move comes after backup running back Tyler Goodson suffered sprains to his MCL and ACL in his left knee during his breakout game in Week 9 against the Indianapolis Colts. The injury will sideline Goodson for a few weeks, forcing the team to make adjustments ahead of a Week 10 matchup against the San Francisco 49ers at&T Stadium.
Dallas Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer said that Israel Abanikanda will be elevated from the practice squad to step into the role of Williams’ primary backup for Sunday’s game.
Abanikanda has been with the Cowboys since November 30, 2025, when he initially signed to the practice squad midway through the 2025 season. Following that season, he signed a reserve/future contract with the organization. He was later released during final roster cuts after the preseason, but re-signed to the practice squad 24 hours later.
Earlier this season, Abanikanda earned a promotion to the active roster following an injury to Malik Davis that sent Davis to injured reserve. Abanikanda was subsequently waived and re-signed to the practice squad before earning this second stint on the active roster.
Throughout his NFL career, Abanikanda has bounced between practice squads and spent time with the New York Jets, San Francisco 49ers, and Green Bay Packers. During the 2023 season with the Jets, he appeared in six games and carried the ball 22 times for 70 yards.
Kickoff between the Cowboys and 49ers at&T Stadium is scheduled for Sunday afternoon at 4:25 p.m. ET on FOX.
