The Patriots are signing veteran running back Ezekiel Elliott to a one-year deal worth up to $6 million for the 2023 season, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Elliott will make $3 million in base salary with $2 million in incentives and a $1 million signing bonus.
After Elliott spent seven seasons with the Cowboys, Dallas opted to release the veteran in the offseason and move forward with Tony Pollard as their top running back. Elliott took a few visits in free agency, which included a visit to New England in late July.
New England adds Elliott to a strong running back room that has Rhamondre Stevenson, who rushed for over 1,000 yards last season. Elliott will help replace Damien Harris, who signed with the Bills after a solid season as Stevenson’s backup last year.
In 2022, Elliott totaled a career-low 876 rushing yards but still scored 12 touchdowns in 15 games. In his seven-year career, Elliott has made three Pro Bowl teams and rushed for over 1,000 yards four times.
Rapoport also reports Elliott will wear his college No. 15 after being No. 21 in Dallas.
