Dallas Cowboys running back Malik Davis has been fined $6,735 for an unnecessary roughness infraction during a preseason matchup against the Arizona Cardinals. The incident took place in the first quarter at the 12:07 mark, following a five-yard carry by Davis. Although no penalty was called during the game, the NFL later imposed the fine as part of its routine for preseason violations.
Davis is the only player from the Cowboys to receive a fine during this preseason. The highest fine in the league was given to Cleveland Browns offensive tackle Tytus Howard, who was penalized $12,537 for a similar infraction in Week 1 of the preseason.
Currently in the second year of a two-year, $2.1 million contract, Davis has a base salary of $1.1 million for 2026, with the fine accounting for about 0.6% of his earnings. All fines collected by the NFL are donated to the Professional Athletes Foundation, which aids athletes in need and promotes health and safety initiatives.
Davis has been competing for the backup running back position against Jaydon Blue and Phil Mafah. After the roster was finalized, Blue was cut and joined the Philadelphia Eagles practice squad, while Mafah remains a free agent. Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer praised Davis's consistent value to the team, emphasizing his contributions to the competitive environment.
