Ezekiel Elliott came out of Ohio State as a highly touted draft prospect. After three years in Scarlet and Gray, Elliott was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys as the first running back off the board and No. 4 overall player taken in the 2016 draft. He did not disappoint as he would lead the NFL in rushing as a rookie with 1,631 yards and 16 total touchdowns.
After spending 2023 with the New England Patriots, the Cowboys brought Elliott back to Dallas to be a veteran leader. But the season went south quickly, leaving America’s Team out of the playoff race. Knowing his opportunities to get to a Super Bowl are dwindling, Elliott requested his release with hopes of signing with a contender to help with a playoff run.
Jerry Jones and the Cowboys obliged and will allow Elliott to pursue another team.
#Cowboys are releasing RB Ezekiel Elliott per his request after taking a reduced role in the offense ✭ @thecowboysnetwork pic.twitter.com/BaV1vbT2Rx
— The Cowboys Network (@TheCowboysNet) December 31, 2024
The Dallas owner had nothing but glowing comments to say about his former running back upon his release.
“Out of respect and appreciation for Zeke and wanting to provide him with an opportunity to pursue any potential playoff participation possible, we are releasing him from the Cowboys roster today. As I have said many times previously, Zeke’s impact as one of the greatest to ever play with the Star on their helmet will never change and is etched in our record books and history forever. We thank him, love him and wish him the absolute best.” Jerry Jones
Zeke has had a phenomenal career in the league rushing for more than 9,100 yards and 88 total touchdowns.
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