As we inch toward the new season, the ever-changing NFL landscape has player fantasy values constantly on the move. Whether you’re used to the dynasty platform or are still learning the dynasty rules, let’s dive into the latest dynasty value of Malik Davis.
Malik Davis’ Dynasty Outlook and Value
The uncertainty of the Cowboys’ backfield makes Davis an intriguing name in the dynasty world. The 2022 UDFA earned the team’s RB3 role behind Ezekiel Elliott and Tony Pollard. Of course, that role doesn’t have any fantasy value by itself. But that doesn’t mean Davis isn’t worth a spot on fantasy rosters, especially now.
We didn’t see much of Davis last season, as he only got on the field in six games, totaling 38 carries for 161 yards and a touchdown. He also added six receptions for 63 yards on seven targets.
That’s not much to go on, but from an athletic standpoint, Davis does have elite burst despite his 4.71 adjusted 40 time. Typically, running backs slower than 4.65 can be written off. But volume is king in fantasy football. If Davis ends up as the Cowboys’ RB2, he’ll be fantasy-relevant.
MORE: Dynasty Rankings 2023 — Top Fantasy Options at Running Back
Davis operated as the Cowboys’ RB2 in one game this season. It was the Week 17 Thursday night contest against the Tennessee Titans. In that game, he totaled 62 yards on 12 touches. His 8.3 fantasy points provided solid RB3 numbers.
While the Cowboys’ running back situation is far from settled, we do have clarity on their top two guys. Pollard is back under the franchise tag (while the two sides still work toward a potential extension), and Elliott is gone. That leaves Davis as the presumptive favorite to be the team’s RB2.
Malik Davis’ Fantasy Ranking
Given that this is dynasty, we must always look toward the future, though. Davis’ value ceiling in 2023 is as an RB3, barring an injury to whoever is in front of him. That’s assuming the Cowboys don’t draft a running back on Day 2 or sign a quality veteran.
They are going to add another running back. It’s just a matter of whether that back is merely roster depth or an attempt to upgrade from Davis. Who that player is will dictate whether Davis maintains a hold on the RB2 role.
Odds are there’s someone in your league with a team worth rostering Davis. But as a whole, I don’t see much of a ceiling for him long term.
It’s possible Davis has a couple of moments in 2023. If that happens, I would look to move him the moment his value spikes.
We currently have Davis unranked in our dynasty Superflex rankings. Upon the next update, I imagine he’ll find his way into the top 300. He’s not someone I’m necessarily looking to target in dynasty startup drafts, but if he ends up being a cheap RB4/5 for the 2023 season, I’m not opposed.