The Dallas Cowboys have a short time left before the 2024 NFL draft, and it seems like they’re planning to bring back Ezekiel Elliott. The Cowboys and the former running back have been uncertain about reuniting, but the latest news suggests that it's happening.
On April 23, CBS Sports’ Josina Anderson reported that Elliott’s representative is currently visiting the Cowboys’ facility.
“I’m told the #Cowboys are currently meeting with RB Ezekiel Elliott’s representative around the facility a day before the NFL Draft, per source,” Anderson wrote on X.
After a lot of talk and rumors in mid-to-late March, discussions about the reunion have quieted down. However, with important decisions to be made in the NFL draft, perhaps the Cowboys are considering securing their RB group before making a selection.
Elliott was a standout player for Dallas during his seven-year tenure with the Cowboys, earning three Pro Bowl selections. He was the NFL's leading rusher in 2016 and 2018. His 8262 rushing yards ranks third all-time in Cowboys franchise history.
Dallas and Elliott Have ‘Mutual Interest’
During all the reports and updates from March, the most significant was from ESPN reporter Jeremy Fowler. On March 30, Fowler disclosed that the two parties have mutual interest in reuniting.
“The Dallas Cowboys and free agent running back Ezekiel Elliott have mutual interest in a reunion, as per sources cited by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. Although a deal between Elliott and his former club hasn't been finalized, both sides are open to it, as per sources.
Elliott’s time with the New England Patriots did not go as planned. His performance declined, despite joining a new team. According to Pro Football Reference, Elliott achieved career lows for rushing yards (642) and average yards per carry (3.5.)
From Dallas’ point of view, the hope is that a reunion could elevate Elliot's performance. However, it’s far from certain. Elliott is now 28 years old, which is advanced in terms of modern RBs. Additionally, Elliott’s last season with the Cowboys wasn’t much better than his 2023 campaign.
Elliott averaged 3.8 yards per rush in 2022. He also failed to reach 1000 yards from scrimmage for the first time in his career.
Cowboys Could Go Different Route
While signing Elliott would be fantastic, the Cowboys have other options. Apart from drafting an RB, they could explore a trade for one. Pro Football Focus writer Marcus Mosher believes it’s a possibility and suggests Houston Texans RB Dameon Pierce as an option.
“The Texans have since added Joe Mixon and rewarded him with a new contract. He will be their starter in 2024 and beyond, but it wouldn’t be surprising to see the Texans draft a running back with some speed to complement him,” Mosher wrote on April 23.
Pierce has shown serious potential in his two seasons in Houston. He amassed 939 rushing yards in his rookie season in 2022, but saw reduced involvement in 2023.
Mosher believes that Pierce could be obtainable in a trade for a Day 3 draft pick. Given his age and potential, that seems like a good deal.
