The Dallas Cowboys released Running Back Ezekiel Elliott before Week 18. Dallas, in a show of respect to Elliott, released the running back so he could pursue opportunities to sign with a playoff team. The running back reportedly requested his release from the Dallas Cowboys as well. He has 226 yards and three rushing touchdowns this season. If Elliott clears waivers, which he is expected to do, he will be a free agent with the NFL Playoffs a little more than a week away.
Dallas Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones had this to say following the running back’s release: “Out and respect and admiration 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…Zeke’s impact as one of the greatest to ever play with the Star on their helmet will never change and is etched into our record books and history forever…“
Elliott has spent eight of his nine career seasons with the Dallas Cowboys. He re-signed with the Dallas Cowboys this offseason following a one-year stint with the New England Patriots. The running back has struggled in recent years as he has been unable to recapture the success he experienced earlier in his career. Elliott was one of the NFL’s best running backs for about five years, but his last few seasons have been poor. Will Elliott be able to sign with a playoff team?
What Teams Are the Best Fit For Ezekiel Elliott?
Released by the #Cowboys, Ezekiel Elliott now heads to waivers.
Out of respect and appreciation for his Cowboys history, Dallas wanted to provide him the opportunity to pursue any potential playoff opportunities. If he clears, he’ll be a free agent. pic.twitter.com/fVJ0knsSGN
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) December 31, 2024
Ezekiel Elliott has looked like a washed player over the last few seasons. It is not an easy task finding teams that will be knocking down the door for an aging player with his best days behind him. One possible destination is the Kansas City Chiefs. Kansas City has become a preferred destination for veteran players looking to win a Super Bowl in the latter years of their careers. The most recent example of that thought process was the team acquiring Wide Receiver DeAndre Hopkins earlier this season.
Another good landing spot for the running back is the Detroit Lions. The team has been ravaged by injuries all season and that is the case at the running back position. David Montgomery has been sidelined since Week 15 with a knee injury. Montgomery is looking to return this postseason after reportedly avoiding season-ending surgery. His timeline to return to the field is unknown, and Elliott would provide an insurance policy.
Final Thoughts
Elliott should be able to provide a veteran presence to a team eyeing a deep playoff run. Even though he did not have a good season in Dallas this year, he could be a positive locker room presence as the NFL season enters its most critical stretch.
