Dallas Cowboys Moving Closer to a Reunion with Ezekiel Elliott

Dallas Cowboys Moving Closer to a Reunion with Ezekiel Elliott

The Dallas Cowboys are inching toward a reunion with star running back Ezekiel Elliott for the upcoming 2024 NFL season. After spending last season with the New England Patriots, Elliott’s potential return to the Cowboys has fans buzzing.

Background:

• Elliott’s Journey: The 28-year-old running back spent the first seven years of his NFL career donning the iconic Cowboys jersey.
• Jonathon Brooks Missed: Texas running back Jonathon Brooks caught their eye, but the Carolina Panthers snagged him 46th overall, just ahead of the Cowboys’ second-round pick.

Draft Developments:

The Cowboys have yet to select a running back in the 2024 NFL draft, leaving room for speculation about Elliott’s potential comeback. Owner Jerry Jones expressed interest in bringing back the 28-year-old running back, even though Texas standout Jonathon Brooks was taken by the Carolina Panthers ahead of the Cowboys’ second-round pick. With four more picks remaining (Nos. 174, 216, 233, and 244), Elliott could be the next play for Dallas.

Elliott’s Credentials:

Jones believes that Elliott is still capable of being an NFL starter. The Cowboys’ running back room currently includes Rico Dowdle, Royce Freeman, Deuce Vaughn, Malik Davis, and Snoop Conner. However, the departure of Tony Pollard in free agency has created an opening.

In the 2023 season with the Patriots, Elliott recorded 642 rushing yards on 184 attempts, scoring three touchdowns. He also contributed as a receiver, catching 51 passes for 313 yards and two additional touchdowns. Following Rhamondre Stevenson’s ankle injury, Elliott’s usage increased during the final five weeks of the season.

Jerry Jones Speaks:

Owner Jerry Jones expressed interest in reuniting with Elliott, emphasizing that the draft isn’t over yet. Jones stated, “We also are keenly interested in seeing what the future might look like with Zeke.” He believes Elliott still has the potential to be an NFL starter.

Running Back Room:

• Tony Pollard’s Departure: With Tony Pollard leaving in free agency to join the Tennessee Titans, there’s an opening in the Cowboys’ running back room.
• Current Contenders: Rico Dowdle, Royce Freeman, Deuce Vaughn, Malik Davis, and Snoop Conner are all under contract.

Jones’ Caution and Optimism:

While Jones isn’t committing to Elliott’s return just yet, he acknowledges the need to solidify the running back position. He stated, “Zeke’s good enough to be in the running back room and he’s good enough to play for the Cowboys.”