This NFL offseason, the Dallas Cowboys made the difficult decision to part ways with veteran running back Ezekiel Elliott after seven seasons with the franchise. Despite the team’s clear focus on Pro Bowler Tony Pollard, Elliott still delivered a solid performance in 2022, finishing the year with 12 touchdowns.
Although Elliott may no longer be the dominant player he once was, the duo of him and Pollard in the backfield remained a formidable force for opposing defenses. Head coach Mike McCarthy recently shared his thoughts on the team’s tough choice to release Elliott, offering insight into how the decision was approached.
Dak Prescott, Jerry Jones, and McCarthy have all conveyed similar sentiments regarding Elliott’s departure, underlining the affection and respect the 27-year-old running back had earned from teammates and management alike.
Despite the release, McCarthy noted that Elliott’s return to the Cowboys is not out of the question, leaving the possibility open. Currently unsigned, Elliott has reportedly drawn interest from teams such as the New York Jets.
Although Elliott’s time with the Cowboys has ended, it remains unclear whether he will be able to reclaim a starting role elsewhere after spending his entire NFL career in Dallas.
In his seven seasons with the Cowboys, the Ohio State alum amassed 8,262 rushing yards and 68 touchdowns, in addition to 2,336 receiving yards and 12 receiving touchdowns.
