Did Cowboys re-sign Ezekiel Elliott? Jerry Jones gives clarity on RB's Dallas reunion

Ezekiel Elliott was released by the Dallas Cowboys after the 2022 NFL season in what can best be described as a cap-saving move. The three-time Pro Bowler was on a big contract and Dallas needed to invest some money in other aspects of their roster.

The Dallas Cowboys have not re-signed Ezekiel Elliott, however, there are significant rumors that they are considering it. This news comes following the first day of the 2024 NFL draft, which saw the Cowboys opt against drafting a running back.

It looks like the Dallas Cowboys-Ezekiel Elliott reunion is on the verge of happening. When asked about his former RB, Jerry Jones spoke highly of Elliott.

“As recent as the end of the year (last season), I saw Zeke play (with the Patriots) and I’ll tell you, he’s good enough to be a starter (in 2024),” Jerry Jones said, per Jon Machota of The Athletic

The Cowboys front office has made it clear of their intention to re-sign Elliott and absorb him into their running back rotation in 2024.

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How did Ezekiel Elliott perform in 2023?

Ahead of the 2023 NFL season, Ezekiel Elliott signed a short-term contract with the New England Patriots. From day one, the Patriots made it clear that Elliott would be used mainly as a short-yardage and red-zone threat behind incumbent starter Rhamondre Stevenson.

Elliott stayed in that role in his sole season with the Patriots, and he put up a stat line of 648 rushing yards on 184 carries and three rushing touchdowns in 17 games. Elliott also added 313 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns but departed the franchise at the end of the 2023 season.

What will Ezekiel Elliott bring to the Dallas Cowboys in 2024?

In his early NFL days, Elliott was a running back who relied on brute force and the occasional show of skill to beat defenders and score touchdowns. However, following years of wear and tear, the former Ohio State Buckeyes star has started to decline.

If Elliott signs for the Cowboys, we expect him to be a red zone and short-yardage threat, much as he was last year. Given that Elliott can do it all, there is a chance that he might, but the Cowboys already have more explosive backs on their depth chart for third down and passing situations.