The Dallas Cowboys have a clear need at the running back position after the departure of Tony Pollard this offseason. And it now sounds like they could be on the verge of bringing back one of the most memorable players in the recent history of the organization to help fill that need.
Former Cowboys star Ezekiel Elliott spent this past season with the New England Patriots, serving in a complimentary role in the Patriots backfield behind Rhamondre Stevenson.
He made the most of his reduced role, recording 955 scrimmage yards and five total touchdowns. He was particularly useful as a receiver out of the backfield, hauling in a team-high 51 receptions.
It’s a far cry from what Elliott’s numbers looked like when he was in his prime with the Cowboys at the beginning of his career. But his production at least showed that he very much still deserves a role in the NFL.
It seems like the Cowboys took notice of Elliott’s play last season. According to David Moore of the Dallas Morning News, a reunion between Elliott and the Cowboys organization is “on the horizon”.
It’s interesting timing for this information to emerge. Particularly because the Cowboys have been linked to potentially drafting a running back in the 2024 NFL Draft taking place this weekend.
The Cowboys signing a player like Elliott likely won’t stop them from still selecting a running back in the draft. But it could potentially influence what kind of running back they may want to bring in to potentially complement him.
Despite experience on the defensive side to start his college career at TCU before waiting to get his chance on the Sooners offensive line, he feels his practice and game experience since the start of his collegiate career at left tackle has prepared him to take advantage of the opening on the Cowboys’ offensive line.
“I’ve been playing left tackle since I’ve gotten into college,” he said. “I actually feel like I’m better at left tackle and I’m more comfortable over there anyway. The switch should be pretty easy.”
