The Dallas Cowboys achieved a 17-7 victory over the Seattle Seahawks in their first preseason matchup, but the game was marred by an injury to running back Phil Mafah. He sustained a chest injury and was initially listed as questionable to return, later being ruled out for the remainder of the game.
Fortunately, early assessments indicate that Mafah's injury may not be serious. Currently, he ranks third on the Cowboys' depth chart, following Javonte Williams and Jaydon Blue. Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer commented on Mafah's status, saying, "Yeah, he's okay, I talked to him. I think we came out okay, a little bumps and bruises."
In addition to Mafah, safety Justin Barron also faced injury during the game. Schottenheimer mentioned that the team would evaluate the players further upon returning to Oxnard for treatment.
Mafah, a seventh-round draft pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, is competing for a position on the final 53-man roster after a difficult rookie season, where he played only one game and recorded five carries for 18 yards and a touchdown. Meanwhile, veteran running back Malik Davis showcased his skills with seven carries for 39 yards, averaging 5.5 yards per carry.
As roster cuts approach, the Cowboys will continue to monitor player health, especially Mafah's condition.
