According to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo, Dallas placed running back Tyler Goodson on injured reserve and waived outside linebacker Tyrus Wheat. The Cowboys also activated defensive tackle Jonathan Bullard from injured reserve, signed tight end James Mitchell to the active roster from the practice squad, and elevated running back Israel Abanikanda and cornerback Derion Kendrick. One fan summed up the moves by saying, “Getting Bullard back off IR is the real add, and they clearly needed another running back.”
Abanikanda's elevation comes at an important time for Dallas. Goodson had recently earned opportunities behind starting running back Javonte Williams, but his knee injury will keep him out of the lineup. Abanikanda now has a chance to step into the rotation and show what he can contribute.
The running back spent time with the New York Jets after they selected him in the fifth round of the 2023 NFL Draft. However, he has not appeared in an NFL game since his rookie season. Sunday's matchup could give him a valuable opportunity to make an impression.
Bullard's return also gives the Cowboys another option along the defensive line. Meanwhile, Kendrick's elevation provides additional depth in the secondary as Dallas prepares for a difficult test against San Francisco.
The Cowboys will need every available contributor as they look to handle the 49ers. These roster changes could prove important, especially with injuries affecting several position groups.