The Dallas Cowboys are bringing back veteran running back Ezekiel Elliott, reuniting with the long-time franchise back who was drafted by the organization with the 4th overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft.
According to ESPN’s Todd Archer, Elliott is expected to agree to a one-year deal Monday to head back to Dallas after spending last season with the New England Patriots. Prior to that, Elliott had spent his entire career with the Cowboys.
“Well, Zeke, as we all know, is one of our favorites,” Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones said ahead of the NFL Draft last Thursday. “He’s laid it on the line for this franchise. He’s the ultimate competitor. I mean, he’s a guy that we obviously think a lot of.”
The Cowboys, who saw starting running back Tony Pollard sign with the Tennessee Titans during free agency, met with Elliott and his agent, Rocky Arceneaux prior to the 2024 NFL Draft last week.
Dallas is aiming to use a running back by committee this season, and Elliott now joins a backfield that consists of Rico Dowdle, Deuce Vaughn, Malik Davis, Hunter Luepke and free agent signing Royce Freeman.
Elliott, 28, ran for 8,262 yards over from 2016 to 2022 with the Cowboys and earned three Pro Bowl nods as he set team rookie records with 1,631 yards and posted 30 100-yard games.
