Dallas Cowboys running back Malik Davis has been fined $6,735 for unnecessary roughness during a preseason matchup with the Arizona Cardinals. The infraction took place in the first quarter, specifically when Davis gained five yards on a carry at the 12:07 mark.
Although he did not receive a penalty during the game, the NFL later imposed the fine as part of its standard procedure for preseason violations.
Davis is the only player from the Cowboys to face a fine during the preseason. The largest fine issued in the league for this period was to Cleveland Browns offensive tackle Tytus Howard, who was penalized $12,537 for a similar violation in Week 1 of the preseason.
Currently, Davis is in his second year of a two-year contract worth $2.1 million, which includes a base salary of $1.1 million for 2026. The fine amounts to roughly 0.6% of his salary. All fines collected by the NFL are directed to the Professional Athletes Foundation, which aids athletes in need and promotes health and safety initiatives across football.
In terms of his role, Davis competed for the backup running back position against Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah throughout the offseason. Blue was cut from the roster along with Mafah, allowing Davis to secure the backup role behind starting running back Javonte Williams. Following the roster decisions, the Cowboys added Emari Demercado from waivers for additional depth.
