The Dallas Cowboys made their first big change of the 2023 NFL offseason by cutting ties with offensive coordinator Kellen Moore, allowing Mike McCarthy to control play-calling. Now, another significant move could be imminent.
Dallas currently sits more than $7 million over the 2023 NFL salary cap, putting it in a challenging position this offseason. Keeping Pro Bowl running back Tony Pollard is the top priority, but the franchise must also address needs on both sides of the ball and retain Leighton Vander Esch and Anthony Brown.
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The financial situation will force the Cowboys to make some difficult decisions with several contributors. Among them running back Ezekiel Elliott faces an uncertain future. Whether or not he stays in Dallas, though, will be up to him.
- Ezekiel Elliott stats (2022): 876 rushing yards, 12 touchdowns, 3.8 yards per carry
According to Matt Lombardo, the Cowboys will ask Elliott to make a massive pay cut this offseason. If he refuses, Dallas will release him and move forward with Pollard as its featured running back.
There is a significant financial incentive to release Elliott. If he is designated a pre-June 1 release, Dallas creates $4.86 million in cap room. Declaring him a post-1 June cut would be far more beneficial, generating $10.9 million in cap space.
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Once one of the best running backs in the NFL, Elliott’s effectiveness has plummeted in recent years. The 27-year-old averaged 4.6 yards per carry and 96.5 rushing yards per game in his first four seasons. Over the last three years, Elliott averaged just 4.0 yards per carry with 60.8 rush ypg.
- Ezekiel Elliott career stats: 8,262 rushing yards, 68 rushing touchdowns, 4.4 yards per carry
Despite the overwhelming support he has received from owner Jerry Jones over the year, Elliott’s odds of staying with the Cowboys will come down to sacrifice. If he isn’t willing to take a massive salary reduction, one that would lower his cap hit by at least $6 million, he is headed for free agency.
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Considering he is no longer an explosive runner and the 2023 NFL Draft class is deep at running back, being released could push Elliott towards the end of his pro career. The Cowboys’ offense is the best fit for him, especially if McCarthy implements a more run-heavy approach next year. For now, though, it’s unclear if Elliott is willing to take the pay cut required to stay.