Dallas Cowboys Make Surprise Move, Sign Explosive Former All-American RB
Dallas Cowboys Add Dynamic Ex-All-American Running Back in Unexpected Late-Season Move
The Dallas Cowboys are doing everything they can to keep their momentum alive.
Riding a three-game winning streak, sitting second in the NFC East, and closing the gap on a stumbling Eagles squad, Dallas is firmly in the hunt for the division crown.
After facing criticism for the Micah Parsons trade, the Cowboys followed their Thanksgiving win over the Kansas City Chiefs with a notable roster move.
On Sunday, the team brought in Israel Abanikanda, signing the explosive young running back to their practice squad.

More on the Israel Abanikanda Addition
College football fans may recall Abanikanda for his breakout tenure with the Pittsburgh Panthers from 2020–2022. He erupted for 1,431 yards and 20 touchdowns in his final season, earning third-team AP All-America honors.
His stellar college résumé helped him land with the New York Jets as a fifth-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. However, he struggled to carve out a role, saw limited snaps, and was ultimately released before finishing his second year.
Abanikanda then spent a short period with the San Francisco 49ers in 2024, later joining the Green Bay Packers’ practice squad during the 2025 preseason. He was cut after Week 1.
Now, he’s getting yet another opportunity — this time with the Dallas Cowboys, who are bringing him into their system late in the season.
Dallas’ ground game has been solid this year, led by Javonte Williams, who has already logged 955 yards and eight touchdowns through 13 weeks — both personal bests.
Adding Abanikanda gives the Cowboys added depth and security at running back as the playoff push intensifies.










