Andrew Buller-Russ
The New England Patriots may have had interest in signing Dalvin Cook, but with signs pointing to the Pro Bowl back possibly landing with their division rival New York Jets, we’re seeing Bill Belichick pivot to another free agent instead.
According to Jordan Schultz, Ezekiel Elliott will be in New England visiting with the Patriots today. Elliott was released after seven productive seasons with the Dallas Cowboys back in March. But with training camps kicking off last week, interest in the former All-Pro is expected to pick up.
New England getting involved comes after the team recently ran Leonard Fournette through a workout too, so it’s clear the Patriots are considering adding more depth to their backfield. It’s possible Elliott is the solution they’re looking for. With so many capable tailbacks still available in free agency, it never hurts to see how a former top rusher looks before committing to a contract.
Elliott just turned 28 and has four seasons with over 1,000 rushing yards in his seven-year career. But recent indications suggest the former No. 4 overall pick may be slowing down as of late. As a rookie, Elliott posted a career-high 5.1 yards per carry. Last season we saw Elliott post a career-low average of 3.8 yards per carry. Once the season was done, the Cowboys moved on, deciding to push forward with backup Tony Pollard instead.
Zeke was once considered among the best running backs in football, but that is no longer the case. Still, it’s not like the four-time Pro Bowl back can’t still offer plenty of production in short-yardage situations and even in passing situations, where he has 305 receptions in his career.
No matter what, the Patriots are likely looking at Elliott as a backup option to Rhamondre Stevenson, but that doesn’t mean the former Cowboys tailback can’t help New England’s offense improve in 2023.
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