A Few Weeks Without Tyler Goodson: Cowboys Elevate Familiar RB Reinforcement Amid Injury
Goodson’s injury changes the depth chart
Goodson’s breakout performance against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 9 helped establish him as the Cowboys’ RB2 behind Javonte Williams. But sprains to the MCL and ACL in his left knee will keep him out for a few weeks.
Head coach Brian Schottenheimer said the Cowboys will elevate Israel Abanikanda from the practice squad. Abanikanda is expected to be Williams’ primary backup for the game against San Francisco at AT&T Stadium.
Abanikanda has moved between rosters
Abanikanda joined the Cowboys’ practice squad on November 30, 2025, and later signed a reserve/future contract. The team released him during its final roster cuts after the preseason, then brought him back to the practice squad 24 hours later.
Earlier this season, Dallas added Abanikanda to the active roster after Malik Davis suffered an injury that sent him to injured reserve. The Cowboys later waived Abanikanda and re-signed him to the practice squad; this is his second stint on the active roster.
A limited NFL game record
Abanikanda has played six NFL games and carried the ball 22 times for 70 yards, all during the 2023 season with the New York Jets. His career has also included stints with the 49ers and Green Bay Packers.
The Cowboys will face the 49ers at AT&T Stadium on Sunday, with kickoff set for 4:25 p.m. ET on FOX. Whether Abanikanda receives an increased workload remains to be seen as Dallas seeks to use its running game to open up the passing attack.
Key points
- Tyler Goodson is expected to miss a few weeks with left-knee MCL and ACL sprains.
- Abanikanda is returning to the active roster for his second stint with Dallas.
- The Cowboys host the 49ers Sunday at 4:25 p.m. ET on FOX.