Hours after reports surfaced that running back Ezekiel Elliott narrowed down his choices of teams to three, it appears there might not be as much interest in the former Dallas Cowboys star as previously believed.
Adam Schefter of ESPN reported Thursday that Elliott narrowed down his options to the Dallas Cowboys, New York Jets and Cincinnati Bengals. Just a week after being cut by Dallas, the former All-Pro running back intended to make a decision in the coming days.
- Ezekiel Elliott stats (2022): 876 rushing yards, 12 touchdowns, 3.8 yards per carry
The information led many to believe that the Eagles, Jets and Bengals were all competing to sign the former NFL star. However, it now appears clear that those same three clubs might not even have an interest in speaking with Elliott.
John Clark of NBC Sports Philadelphia reported Thursday night that the Eagles haven’t engaged in any conversations with Elliott. Furthermore, Philadelphia’s coaching staff and front office are reportedly happy with the depth and talent they already have at running back.
The Eagles aren’t the only team to immediately suggest nothing is happening with Elliott. Asked by WCPO 9’s Mike Dyer, Bengals’ coach Zac Taylor said the team likes where it’s at right now with running backs. He also indicated Schefter’s report was the first time he heard anything about Cincinnati being interested in Elliott.
- Ezekiel Elliott career stats: 8,262 rushing yards, 68 rushing touchdowns, 4.4 yards per carry
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It all ties back to reporting by Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk. The NFL insider said the aforementioned teams are a wishlist, clubs that Elliott wants to play for next season. As of now, though, it appears the interest isn’t mutual.
After receiving more than 2,200 touches during his career in Dallas, a majority of NFL teams believe Elliott is largely finished and only worth a small contract. Based on that and the quick denial from clubs, it’s evident that Elliott might be trying to create a market for himself because it doesn’t currently exist.
