# Cowboys sign Tyler Goodson, waive Israel Abanikanda

> Dallas adds a running back with NFL experience and special teams value from Atlanta's practice squad.
- Title: Cowboys sign Tyler Goodson, waive Israel Abanikanda | Shortify
- Summary: Dallas adds a running back with NFL experience and special teams value from Atlanta's practice squad. The Cowboys prioritized special teams experience and…
- Keywords: dallas cowboys, tyler goodson, israel abanikanda, atlanta falcons, running back, roster move, special teams, javonte williams, emari demercado, nfl, sports, Cowboys
- Source: Dallas Cowboys On SI — https://si.com/nfl/cowboys/onsi/cowboys-cut-ties-running-back-tyler-goodson-signing
- Published: 2026-09-15T20:22:49+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: dallas cowboys, tyler goodson, israel abanikanda, atlanta falcons, running back, roster move, special teams, javonte williams, emari demercado, nfl, sports
## Cowboys sign Tyler Goodson
Dallas signed running back Tyler Goodson to the 53-man roster off the Atlanta Falcons' practice squad. The team needed to make a corresponding move to open a roster spot.
## Israel Abanikanda gets waived
The Cowboys waived veteran running back Israel Abanikanda from the 53-man roster to make room for Goodson. Abanikanda first joined Dallas last November on a practice squad deal.
## Abanikanda had strong preseason
The former fifth-round pick impressed during training camp and preseason but failed to make the initial 53-man roster. He was brought back to the practice squad after being cut.
## Abanikanda likely returns to practice squad
Dallas doesn't currently have a running back on their practice squad. The team expects Abanikanda to return to that role.
## Experience matters in the decision
Goodson brings more NFL experience with 33 career games compared to Abanikanda's six. That game experience was a key factor in Dallas's choice.
## Special teams value sealed the deal
Goodson has 306 career special teams snaps and return experience. Abanikanda has just five career special teams snaps, offering little value in that area.

> A No. 3 running back needs to be able to play on special teams and Goodson has much more experience in that area
## Goodson slots in as No. 3
Goodson will be the third running back behind Javonte Williams and Emari Demercado. He may not even be active on gamedays since Dallas only carried two backs in Week 1.
## Special teams will be his main role
When active, Goodson will contribute on special teams. He'll only see offensive snaps if Williams or Demercado gets hurt.
## What Goodson brings on offense
Goodson lacks power but is elusive with 4.42 speed. He's a capable pass-catcher but isn't reliable as a blocker.
## Key takeaway

The Cowboys prioritized special teams experience and NFL game reps over raw potential when choosing their No. 3 running back.