Cowboys demote Donovan Ezeiruaku, start Malachi Lawrence against Packers
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 19, 2026, 2:55 AM
Last updated Oct 19, 2026
The Dallas Cowboys have made a significant lineup change ahead of their game against the Green Bay Packers, demoting Donovan Ezeiruaku to a backup role and starting Malachi Lawrence instead. Ezeiruaku, who started all five games this season, has underperformed with only 0.5 sacks. Lawrence, selected as a first-round pick in the draft, had a breakthrough performance last week with his first career sack. Coach Brian Schottenheimer indicated that changes were needed due to the team's struggles in pressuring opposing quarterbacks. Lawrence expressed confidence in his development and readiness for more playing time.
- •Cowboys start Malachi Lawrence over Donovan Ezeiruaku on October 18.
- •Ezeiruaku recorded 0.5 sacks this season after starting nine games last year.
- •Malachi Lawrence achieved his first career sack against Tampa Bay last week.
- •The Cowboys aim to improve their pass rush against the Packers offense.
- •Lawrence has shown recent development and readiness for increased responsibility.
- 2:55 AMYahoo Sports — Cowboys Demote Starter in Surprise Lineup Shake-Up
"The Dallas Cowboys made a surprise move on Sunday night in Week 6, demoting Donovan Ezeiruaku and starting Malachi Lawrence. The post Cowboys Demote Starter in Surprise Lineup Shake-Up appeared first on HEAVY.
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