The Dallas Cowboys released Ezekiel Elliott in March, creating significant cap space but also leaving a void at running back on the roster. While Dallas added to its backfield in the 2023 NFL Draft, it appears the door is still open for Elliott to return.
Dallas didn’t spend any of its draft picks in the first two days on a running back, but it selected Deuce Vaughn with the 212th overall pick in the sixth round. Asked by reporters on Saturday if the Vaughn selection meant Elliott wouldn’t return, Cowboys’ owner Jerry Jones made it very clear that wasn’t the case.
- Ezekiel Elliott stats (2022): 876 rushing yards, 12 touchdowns, 3.8 yards per carry
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“No, no no. Not at all. That ship hasn’t sailed yet. We haven’t made a decision. Nothing we did today changes that.”
Jerry Jones on if the door is closed to re-signing Ezekiel Elliott
Jones was initially hesitant to cut Elliott this offseason, wanting to keep the long-time running back who has been an integral part of the Cowboys’ offense. However, releasing him provided Dallas with the cap space to make moves for Brandin Cooks and Stephon Gilmore.
Related: Dallas Cowboys could bring back Ezekiel Elliott
The Cowboys were linked to some of the top running backs in the 2023 draft class, including Bijan Robinson. Once they didn’t take a ball carrier in the first three rounds, there was increased speculation that Elliott might return to Dallas.
Elliott, entering his age-28 season, has been available in NFL free agency for months with minimal signs of interest around the league. While the 6-foot running back is still a quality blocker and can handle short-yardage situations, NFL teams now view him as a backup.
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If Elliott made his way back to Dallas, he would likely have a minor role in the offense. Cowboys’ coach Mike McCarthy has made it clear he wants to run the ball more next season, likely resulting in Dallas finishing with one of the highest rates of rushing plays in the NFL.
Re-signing with Dallas would also provide Elliott with the opportunity to climb up the Cowboys’ career rushing leaderboard. He currently ranks third all-time in rushing yards (8,262) and rushing touchdowns (68). If he accepted a short-yardage back role in Dallas, Elliott could likely surpass Tony Dorsett (72) for the second-most rushing touchdowns in Cowboys’ history.
