The Dallas Cowboys came out of the 2024 NFL Draft weekend not drafting a single running back. As shocking as that is, what may have been even more surprising to Cowboys Nation was the reported interest in bringing a familiar face back to the team.
With reports that Ezekiel Elliott and the Cowboys had mutual interest in reuniting, the agreement came together quickly to bring the two parties back together. We look at Zeke’s body of work, and what he has looked like since his departure to see just what the Cowboys are getting with the newest member of their backfield.
Measurables and career stats
Height: 6’0”
Weight: 225 lb
Years in NFL: 8 seasons
Rushing attempts: 2,065
Rushing yards: 8,904
Rushing average: 4.3
Rushing TDs: 71
Receptions: 356
Receiving yards: 2,649
Receiving TDs: 14
Elliott played his college football at Ohio State University and was one of the most accomplished running backs to ever play at the collegiate level. That career led to him being drafted by the Cowboys with the fourth overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft.
Right out of the gate in the NFL Elliott proved his worth when he rushed for 1,635 rushing yards, and had 15 touchdowns on the ground while adding another through the air, en route to an Offensive Rookie of The Year award.
Elliott is a three-time Pro Bowler and a one-time All-Pro. He’s known for his leadership skills, accountability in the locker room, and for being an all-around likable figure in the NFL.
He has seen his production decline over the last few years and is part of the reason why the Cowboys let him go in the first place, in addition to an enormous cap number. Now with him reportedly being under contract for one year, with a $2 million guarantee that can go to $3 million, Zeke’s cap number is far more palatable, setting the stage for the reunion that has commenced.
The speculation gained traction when the Cowboys only drafted one receiver in the 2024 NFL Draft, selecting Ryan Fournoy from Southeast Missouri State in the sixth round. This led to questions about whether the team was deliberately limiting Prescott’s offensive support. However, Jerry Jones has refuted these claims, stating their intention to remain competitive.
Dallas Cowboys deliberately undermining Dak Prescott?
Prescott himself has hinted at being open to a team-friendly contract with the Cowboys. However, if another team can offer him a lucrative deal, the cap-strapped Cowboys might struggle to match it. This has raised concerns about Prescott’s future with the team and the potential impact on his performance.
The situation has sparked significant interest and debate among NFL fans and analysts. It’s a compelling narrative that has captured the attention of football enthusiasts. As the drama unfolds, it will be fascinating to see how it affects Prescott’s contract negotiations and the dynamics within the Cowboys organization.
In conclusion, while the theory of the Cowboys sabotaging Prescott may seem far-fetched, it has ignited discussions about the team’s strategic decisions and the future of their star quarterback. Only time will tell how this storyline unfolds and its implications for both Prescott and the Cowboys. As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on Dallas as they navigate through these contract negotiations and prepare for the upcoming season.
