The Dallas Cowboys are always on the hunt for hidden gems, and over the weekend, they struck gold by adding running back Israel Abanikanda to their practice squad. This move has sparked excitement among fans, injecting fresh depth into an already competitive backfield. Nicknamed “Izzy,” the Brooklyn native—who the Cowboys eyed hungrily during the 2023 NFL Draft—finally dons the star after a whirlwind journey through the league.
Drafted in the fifth round by the New York Jets, Abanikanda’s pro career has been a rollercoaster. A short detour with the Green Bay Packers didn’t pan out, but now he’s landed in the heart of Texas, ready to chase glory with America’s Team.
On Monday afternoon at The Star, Abanikanda made his much-anticipated practice debut, and all eyes were on his jersey. Drumroll, please: If Izzy suits up for a game this season, he’ll be charging downfield in the iconic No. 30. It’s a number with a fresh legacy in Dallas—recently worn by special teams ace Juanyeh Thomas (2023-24), lockdown corner DaRon Bland (2022), and cornerback Robert Rochell (2025). With his explosive style, Abanikanda could redefine No. 30, turning it into a symbol of speed and grit.
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But earning snaps won’t be easy. The rise of Malik Davis means Izzy might have to bide his time on the sidelines. Still, if he sticks around, this could be the breakout opportunity he’s been waiting for.
Abanikanda’s resume screams potential. Hailing from the Pittsburgh Panthers, he flew under the radar early in college before exploding in his junior year. Taking the reins as the lead back, he racked up 239 carries for 1,431 yards and a whopping 20 touchdowns on the ground. Add in 12 receptions for 146 yards and another score through the air, and you’ve got a dual-threat dynamo. His stellar season earned him first-team All-American and All-ACC honors, cementing his status as a college phenom.
In the pros, glimpses of that brilliance have been tantalizing. During the 2024 preseason with the Jets, Abanikanda dazzled with nine carries for 83 yards and a touchdown—averaging a jaw-dropping 9.2 yards per pop. That electric performance is exactly why the Cowboys are betting on him as a potential game-changer.
From the streets of Brooklyn to the bright lights of Big D, Israel Abanikanda’s story is just getting started. With No. 30 on his back, he’s poised to shine—if he can seize the moment in Dallas. Cowboys Nation, keep an eye on Izzy; this could be the spark the backfield needs.