Dallas Cowboys Re-signed Running Back Emari Demercado

The team added Emari Demercado to the 53-man active roster following the release of offensive lineman Nick Leverett.

Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Football

Dallas Cowboys Re-signed Running Back Emari Demercado

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Should the Dallas Cowboys prioritize re-signing local college stars like Emari Demercado?

The Dallas Cowboys have re-signed running back Emari Demercado to their 53-man roster. This move follows the team's decision to release offensive lineman Nick Leverett to create an open spot.

Why it matters

The roster move restores depth to the running back position following a period of flux for the Dallas organization. The team previously shuffled the roster to accommodate the return of All-Pro offensive lineman Tyler Smith.

The NFL mandates a 53-man active roster limit for all teams. Emari Demercado joins this group following his recent waiver to facilitate the activation of Tyler Smith from the Reserve/Injured-Designated for Return list.

The players

Emari Demercado

He is an NFL running back who has been re-signed to the active Dallas Cowboys roster.

Nick Leverett

He is an NFL offensive lineman who was released by the Dallas Cowboys to make room for roster adjustments.

Tyler Smith

He is an NFL All-Pro offensive lineman who recently returned from the Reserve/Injured-Designated for Return list.

The details

The Cowboys released Nick Leverett on October 12, 2026, to clear space for Demercado's return. Nick Leverett is expected to join the team's practice squad moving forward.

Timeline

  1. October 8, 2026: The Cowboys waived Emari Demercado and activated Tyler Smith.

  2. October 12, 2026: The team released Nick Leverett to open a roster spot.

  3. October 13, 2026: Reports confirmed the return of Emari Demercado to the roster.

Season Trajectory

This roster move follows the team's utilization of the NFL Reserve/Injured-Designated for Return list to manage personnel during the ongoing season. The adjustments impact overall team depth and the competition for roster spots on the 53-man unit.

The addition of Emari Demercado provides the Cowboys with depth at the running back position for upcoming matchups. The release of Nick Leverett shifts the composition of the offensive line unit as the team attempts to retain him via the practice squad.

The takeaway

Roster management is a constant process for NFL teams balancing immediate needs with long-term depth. Fans should track practice squad additions, as waived players often rotate through these secondary units.

Further reading

For more on roster changes and team news, visit the Football section.

Live Poll

Should the Dallas Cowboys prioritize re-signing local college stars like Emari Demercado?