The Dallas Cowboys and former running back Ezekiel Elliott “mutually interest” in getting back together this offseason, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.
In light of that, the Cowboys should bring back Elliott for the following three reasons.
Alongside Dowdle and 2023 sixth-round pick Deuce Vaughn, Elliott would be a dependable and veteran back; nevertheless, there will be other options (especially with regard to rookies next month).
Elliott’s market worth after a disappointing season in New England is indicated by the fact that no other teams have shown interest in him thus far. His next contract will undoubtedly be worth less because of his advancing years and diminishing output, but if it came from the Cowboys, it would undoubtedly be notable.
Even if Elliott makes a comeback, the Cowboys, who own seven picks in this year’s NFL Draft, would probably use one of those picks on a running back. Although Dallas might prioritize filling needs at other positions, it is possible to locate a starting-caliber back in the third round or later.
Elliott had a slow start to his Patriots career except from an 80-yard touchdown against the New York Jets in Week 3.
He only managed 30 yards per game through eight carries and two receptions for eight yards during his first nine outings. He did, however, get better in the end, even though the improvement wasn’t spectacular.
Elliott averaged more carries (14) and yards per game (46 yards) out of the backfield throughout the final eight games. In contrast, he played a considerably larger role in the passing game, averaging five receptions for thirty yards and earning two receiving touchdowns, one of which came just short of a career high.
Elliott may be an asset next to a rookie back if the Cowboys don’t ask him to bear the weight.
Elliott signed a one-year contract with the Patriots that was loaded with incentives. In New England, the 28-year-old set a new personal low in rushing production (642 yards) with a career-worst 3.5 yards per carry average. Nonetheless, he recorded a team-high 51 receptions, demonstrating his enduring talent as a backfield pass-catcher.
Pollard was one of the numerous running backs who signed a new contract extremely early in free agency this offseason, as Dallas kept him on the franchise tag through 2023. Rico Dowdle was re-signed by the Cowboys, but the team still needs a backfield addition, possibly from next month’s draft or the secondary wave of free agency.
