Former three-time Pro Bowler Ezekiel Elliott could join a contender in time for the postseason after his release from the Dallas Cowboys. According to several reports, the Cowboys are granting Elliott’s wishes to find a new team whether that’s for the playoffs or next season. This comes after his return to the team earlier this offseason before the 2024 campaign since spending one single season with the New England Patriots. Originally selected in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft, the former Ohio State product spent the first seven seasons with the Dallas Cowboys but he was hoping to rejuvenate his career with them by returning.
However, it wasn’t working out as Elliott was the No. 2 man behind Rico Dowdle, limiting his snaps the entire season. Issues were rising in the former star’s side who didn’t participate in the game against the Atlanta Falcons due to disciplinary reasons. He was missing meetings and there were moments of tardiness that led up to his suspension. It’s no surprise now the Cowboys are releasing him as the star wants to join a new team as the postseason is around the corner.
He wouldn’t need to be the focal point of a team’s backfield room if it means being a part of a potential playoff team. Elliott wasn’t the focal point in Dallas since his return but he could sign with a contender to see if he could be a reliable contribution. Here are five fits that make the most sense for Ezekiel Elliott after his release.
Record-Setting Pro Bowler Ezekiel Elliott Could Join a Contender After Release
Possible Next Teams
Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens are looking to improve the ground game behind Derrick Henry after signing a two-year deal earlier this offseason. The team still has questions in the depth chart despite having Keaton Mitchell back in the lineup. Justice Hill is more efficient as a dump-off runner but Mitchell has yet to replicate the production that Henry is putting up. Elliott might not have much in the tank like his rookie self but behind a great Ravens offense line, it could give him some room to be another reliable chain-mover.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs came into the season with Isiah Pacheco missing the majority of the 2024 campaign. Veteran Kareem Hunt held stomping grounds but he’s been slowing down each game as the team has been switching him and Pacheco in the lineup. While Pacheco wants to be fresh for the postseason, the team should consider signing Elliott to relieve the stress for Hunt. Elliott doesn’t need to be full-time but it could be a monstrous three-runner front that may be a living nightmare for opposing defenses.
Los Angeles Chargers
Meanwhile, head coach Jim Harbaugh still wants to establish a strong running game for Justin Herbert despite prioritizing the passing game for the majority of this season. J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards have been battling their injuries so a guy like Elliott could step in a major way. He might not start ahead of these backfield pieces but it gives another weapon for Herbert to work with to rely on in the red zone.
Houston Texans
After claiming Diontae Johnson off waivers, the Houston Texans have been no stranger to improving their offensive roster. Even though Joe Mixon has been a solid addition to the team, he’s been mediocre for the rest of the season. He’s looking to improve in the postseason but the team may benefit from adding a veteran ahead of Dameon Pierce and Dare Ogunbowale. Elliott might not be a MVP anymore but he’s a better option than what the Texans have in their depth chart behind Mixon.
Washington Commanders
If any team may acquire another Cowboy, it’s the Washington Commanders. The team is in the driver’s seat for a potential strong run in the postseason with rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. However, Austin Ekeler has been dealing with a scary injury suffered but even though he’s returning, it might be safe to add another solid option like Elliott. No one is starting ahead of Brian Robinson but it could give the offense some relief for some solid running yards.
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