The Dallas Cowboys announced the release of running back Ezekiel Elliott on Tuesday, marking a subdued conclusion to a career that began with promise but ultimately declined.Elliott’s exit follows his second stint with the team that selected him fourth overall in the 2016 NFL Draft. The decision to part ways comes as part of a cost-cutting strategy after the conclusion of the 2022 season.
At 29 years old, Elliott’s release opens the door for him to potentially join a playoff team seeking veteran running back support. This scenario mirrors last season’s situation with four-time Pro Bowler Dalvin Cook, who was cut by the New York Jets and later contributed to Baltimore’s wild-card victory. Cook is currently on the Cowboys’ practice squad.
“Out of respect and appreciation for Zeke and wanting to provide him with an opportunity to pursue any potential playoff participation possible, we are releasing him from the Cowboys roster today,” said Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones. “As I have said many times previously, Zeke’s impact as one of the greatest to ever play with the Star on their helmet will never change and is etched in our record books and history forever.”
After spending one season with the New England Patriots, Elliott returned to the Cowboys on a one-year deal, with hopes of reviving his career. He averaged 1,351 rushing yards per season during his first four years but struggled to reclaim that form, failing to challenge fifth-year player Rico Dowdle for the lead back position. Dowdle made history as the franchise’s first undrafted running back to rush for over 1,000 yards, finishing the season with 1,007 yards as the Cowboys (7-9) prepare to face playoff-bound Washington (11-5) on Sunday.
Elliott’s performance this season was disappointing, as he recorded just 74 carries for 226 yards, averaging a career-low 3.1 yards per carry.
His time with the Cowboys was not without controversy, including a six-game suspension in 2017 due to domestic violence allegations. This season, he was also disciplined and left at home for a game against Atlanta. Despite these challenges, Elliott had two rushing titles and led the NFL in rushing yards per game during his first three seasons. However, after holding out during the 2019 preseason and signing a $90 million contract extension, his production did not meet expectations.
The 2016 All-Pro and three-time Pro Bowler concludes his Dallas career with 1,955 carries for 8,488 yards and 71 touchdowns, ranking third in franchise history in all three categories behind Pro Football Hall of Famers Emmitt Smith and Tony Dorsett. Overall, Elliott finishes with 9,130 rushing yards and 74 touchdowns.
Related topics
- What Channel Is Rugby League on TV
- Where Is the England Rugby League Game Being Played
- Where to Watch World Cup Rugby League
