Cowboys face Giants without elevating practice squad players for season opener

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 13, 2026, 10:40 AM

Last updated Sep 13, 2026

Cowboys face Giants without elevating practice squad players for season opener
Summary

The Dallas Cowboys enter Sunday night's season opener against the New York Giants with a modified 53-man roster following several late injury setbacks. Pro Bowl left guard Tyler Smith was placed on injured reserve with a thumb injury, and backup running back Malik Davis is set to join him with a hip issue. Nick Leverett was promoted to the active roster to address the interior offensive line, while Israel Abanikanda was moved up from the practice squad to handle running back duties. Despite the roster changes, the club chose not to elevate any additional players from the practice squad for the game. Dallas faces potential depth concerns at tackle, where Broderick Jones and Drew Shelton are currently listed as the primary backups behind starters Tyler Guyton and Terence Steele. Inactive players will be confirmed 90 minutes before kickoff.

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Status Watch
  • Tyler Smith is on injured reserve with a thumb injury.
  • Nick Leverett and Israel Abanikanda were promoted to the active 53-man roster.
  • No practice squad players were elevated for the matchup against the New York Giants.
  • TJ Bass is slated to replace Tyler Smith in the starting lineup at guard.
Latest Updates
  • 10:40 AMYahoo SportsNo elevations, Cowboys 53-man roster playing with tackle fire vs Giants
What they're saying
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The Cowboys had to readjust after this week's major injuries. Here's who they'll have available to them for game day.

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