Dallas Cowboys Waived Running Back Emari Demercado
The team released Demercado to clear a roster spot for the return of left guard Tyler Smith from injured reserve.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Football
The Dallas Cowboys have waived running back Emari Demercado to accommodate the return of left guard Tyler Smith from injured reserve. Demercado appeared in two games for the team, tallying 15 yards on five carries.
Why it matters
The move enables the Cowboys to restore Smith to the active roster, bolstering the offensive line depth. Creating a spot for a starting lineman necessitated releasing Demercado, who had joined the organization following stints with the Cardinals and Chiefs.
In his three seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, Demercado recorded 834 rushing yards and 50 receptions for 324 yards. During his limited stint in Dallas, he logged five carries for 15 total rushing yards.
The players
Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys are a professional NFL team based in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex.
Emari Demercado
Emari Demercado is a professional running back who previously played for the Arizona Cardinals and Kansas City Chiefs.
Tyler Smith
Tyler Smith is a professional football player who serves as a starting left guard for the Dallas Cowboys.
Reddy Steward
Reddy Steward is a professional defensive back elevated to the active roster for game-day depth.
Juanyeh Thomas
Juanyeh Thomas is a professional defensive back who provides depth to the team's secondary.
The details
To manage the roster, the Cowboys also elevated defensive backs Reddy Steward and Juanyeh Thomas for the game against the Buccaneers. The decision to cut Demercado was driven strictly by the need to reinstate Smith.
Timeline
October 8, 2026: The Cowboys activated Tyler Smith and waived Emari Demercado.
October 8, 2026: The team competed against the Buccaneers.
Season Trajectory
The return of Tyler Smith is vital for the stability of the offensive line as the Cowboys progress through the mid-season schedule. This roster move helps restore the team's starting lineup strength as they look toward upcoming divisional challenges.
The activation of Tyler Smith suggests an immediate upgrade to the team's interior offensive line protection. Fantasy managers and fans should adjust expectations for the run game rotation now that Demercado is no longer in the backfield mix.
The takeaway
Roster management is a constant balancing act for NFL teams trying to maintain depth while integrating returning starters. Decisions like these highlight the difficult personnel choices made weekly to ensure the strongest lineup possible on the field.
Further reading
For more updates on the roster, visit the Football section.
