Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones
Tony Pollard, the running back, hasn’t been replaced by the Dallas Cowboys yet, but they might replenish with a very recognizable face. According to a recent report by ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler, there is interest in a reunion this offseason between Dallas and former running back Ezekiel Elliott.
The details of the two sides’ courtship are covered in full in Fowler’s report, which was released on March 30.
“Sources tell ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler that there is mutual interest in a reunion between the Dallas Cowboys and free agent running back Ezekiel Elliott,” Fowler wrote. “Sources added that although an agreement between Elliott and his previous club has not yet been reached, both parties are open to it.”
To put it mildly, the notion of Elliott returning to Dallas following their split in 2023 is astounding. The veteran Cowboys running back was dismissed last season because of his lavish pay and dearth of trading partners. In free agency, he signed with the New England Patriots, but he declined in a number of statistical areas.
However, Elliott’s market value has probably decreased once more following a disappointing season spent away from Dallas. The Cowboys might be able to get him back now at a reasonable price. Dallas might make a wise decision by signing him for the right price because he is well-versed in the Jones family and the organization.
Ezekiel Elliott Makes a Detour to New England
Elliott needed a new place to live after failing to reach an agreement, and Bill Belichick came calling. It appeared to be a chance for the former Ohio State Buckeye to demonstrate that he was still a premier running back, but it’s safe to say that didn’t really happen.
Pro Football Reference reports that Elliott gained 642 yards with rushes on 184 carries. He also totaled 313 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns overall. Elliott was the team’s starting running back in just five games, although playing a prominent role.
His career-lowest season average of 3.5 yards per carry was achieved. Over the previous two years, his average yards per carry have decreased: from 4.2 in 2021 to 3.8 in 2022 and finally to 3.5 in 2023.
Here’s where Elliott raises concerns. It is obvious that he is significantly less effective now than he was years ago. Although he doesn’t feel like a “feature back,” the Cowboys might benefit from signing him.
Cowboys HC Discusses the Free Agency Method
The rumors of a reunion seem at odds with some recent remarks made by the Cowboys’ executive leadership. Regarding the team’s strategy to free agency, head coach Mike McCarthy recently stated that they aren’t in the market “right now.”
“We simply don’t currently participate in the free agent market… McCarthy added, “There’s a lot left as well,” as Heavy has reported. “There will undoubtedly be a market either prior to or following the draft, followed by your June 1 market and, of course, another draft class.”
McCarthy makes it very evident in that comment that Dallas is open to making other changes. However, it was evident from the remark and the team’s lack of activity that they are taking their time.
But Elliott does feel like a distinct circumstance. The routes of communication have probably been accelerated by the existing relationship.
