A former Pitt standout is the newest member of America’s Team.

Israel Abanikanda was signed to the Dallas Cowboys’ practice squad this week to provide depth at running back behind Javonte Williams, Malik Davis and Jaydon Blue. He practiced for the first time Monday wearing No. 30.

First practice for new #Cowboys practice squad RB Israel Abanikanda pic.twitter.com/aezD5h69MZ

— Tommy Yarrish (@tommy_yarrish) December 1, 2025

Abanikanda, a fifth-round pick of the New York Jets in 2023, was most recently a member of Green Bay’s practice squad before being released Sept. 8.

The Brooklyn, N.Y., native had a breakout season as a junior at Pitt in 2022, finishing the season with 1,431 yards rushing and being named a first-team All-American. He tallied a combined 746 yards in his first two yea

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