The Cowboys just pulled off a stunning late-night move — signing the RB who once exploded for 1,431 yards and 20 touchdowns in a single season. A depth addition with real firepower, injecting fresh energy, fresh legs, and a serious spark into Dallas’ playoff push.
Dallas, Texas — December 1, 2025
In a move that stunned analysts across the league, the Dallas Cowboys have made a late-season power play, signing former All-American running back Israel Abanikanda to their practice squad — a move insiders are calling one of the most intriguing depth additions of the playoff push.
The Cowboys, riding high on a three-game winning streak and pushing hard to overtake the stumbling Philadelphia Eagles for the NFC East crown, are clearly not easing off the gas. Instead, they’re doubling down — reinforcing their roster as the postseason draws near.
A MOVE BUILT ON MOMENTUM AND NECESSITY
Dallas is coming off a statement Thanksgiving victory over the Kansas City Chiefs, but the celebration didn’t last long. With the playoffs in sight, the front office made a decisive move, adding speed, explosiveness, and depth to their running back room.
Sources inside The Star confirmed that Abanikanda signed with Dallas on Sunday, a strategic addition meant to bolster the team’s insurance behind breakout star Javonte Williams.
THE RISE — AND FALL — OF AN ALL-AMERICAN
College fans remember Abanikanda well.
During his final season at the University of Pittsburgh in 2022, he exploded onto the national stage, rushing for:
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1,431 yards
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20 touchdowns
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Third-Team AP All-American honors
His combination of track speed, lower-body power, and breakaway ability made him one of the most electrifying runners in the country.
Drafted by the New York Jets in the fifth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, expectations were high. But the NFL journey proved unforgiving:
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Limited playing opportunities
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Released before the end of Year 2
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Short 2024 stint with the 49ers
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Practice squad appearance with the Packers in 2025
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Cut after Week 1
For many players, that’s where the road ends.
But not for Abanikanda.
COWBOYS GIVE HIM A NEW CHAPTER
According to team insiders, the Cowboys believe Abanikanda still possesses the raw traits that made him a college star — rare acceleration, home-run play potential, and the ability to spark an offense instantly.
And they know one thing: you can never have too much depth at running back in December.
Starter Javonte Williams has been phenomenal this season, recording:
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955 rushing yards
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8 touchdowns
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Both career highs
But with the physical toll of late-season football and the high stakes of playoff contention, Dallas wanted an additional spark plug waiting in the wings.
THE MESSAGE IS CLEAR: DALLAS IS ALL-IN
This move isn’t just a footnote. It’s a message to the NFC:
The Cowboys are loading up for a deep postseason run — and they’re not leaving anything to chance.
Abanikanda brings fresh legs, untapped upside, and the kind of underdog hunger Dallas loves to cultivate. Coaches believe his skill set fits perfectly in Brian Schottenheimer’s evolving offense, especially in packages designed to create mismatches against tired December defenses.’
The @dallascowboys designated CB Trevon Diggs for return to practice today.
Additionally, the club signed RB Israel Abanikanda to the practice squad.
— Dallas Cowboys Public Relations (@DallasCowboysPR) November 30, 2025
CAN ABANIKANDA REVIVE HIS CAREER IN DALLAS?
If there’s any organization capable of resurrecting his NFL path, it’s the Cowboys — a team known for turning overlooked talent into postseason heroes.
For now, Abanikanda begins on the practice squad, but insiders say he could be elevated quickly depending on injuries, performance, and game-plan needs.
As playoff intensity builds, one thing is certain:
The Dallas Cowboys aren’t just preparing for a run — they’re preparing for a fight.
And Israel Abanikanda may become the late-season weapon no one saw coming.
