Dallas Cowboys Reunion Ezekiel Elliott: Team Moving Closer

Cowboys may reunite with Ezekiel Elliott as they have yet to draft a running back in the 2024 NFL draft.

The Dallas Cowboys have opted not to draft a running back in the first three rounds of the 2024 NFL draft, potentially paving the way for a reunion with Ezekiel Elliott. Team owner Jerry Jones has publicly expressed his interest in bringing back the 28-year-old running back, who spent the majority of his career with the Cowboys before a brief stint with the New England Patriots last season.

Although the Cowboys did show interest in Texas running back Jonathon Brooks, he was selected by the Carolina Panthers with the 46th overall pick, just ahead of Dallas' second-round selection. With four more picks still to come in the draft, including choices at 174, 216, 233, and 244, Elliott remains a viable option for the Cowboys. The departure of Tony Pollard in free agency to the Tennessee Titans has created a void in the running back room, with players like Rico Dowdle, Royce Freeman, Deuce Vaughn, Malik Davis, and Snoop Conner currently under contract.

In the 2023 season, Elliott played all 17 games for the Patriots, tallying 642 rushing yards on 184 carries with three touchdowns. He also contributed 51 receptions for 313 yards and two touchdowns. With an increase in playing time towards the end of the season due to an injury to Rhamondre Stevenson, Elliott showcased his ability to handle a heavier workload.

While Jones has not yet committed to bringing back Elliott, the lack of experience beyond Freeman on the running back depth chart suggests a potential reunion. Jones believes that Elliott still has what it takes to be a starting running back in the NFL, and the Cowboys have the flexibility to shape their backfield for the upcoming season.