Cowboys Part Ways with Ezekiel Elliott, Opening Door for Playoff Contenders
FRISCO, Texas – In a move that surprised few, the Dallas Cowboys released veteran running back Ezekiel Elliott on Tuesday, concluding his second stint with the team after just 15 games. Elliott, seeking an prospect to contribute to a playoff-bound squad, requested his release, which the cowboys granted. He will now enter waivers, hoping to land with a team vying for a postseason berth.
Cowboys owner adn general manager Jerry Jones expressed his respect and gratitude for Elliott’s contributions, acknowledging the running back’s desire to compete for a championship. “We’re releasing Zeke today out of respect for him and his aspirations to possibly participate in the playoffs,” Jones stated. “Zeke’s impact on this franchise is undeniable and will forever be etched in our history books. We are grateful for his dedication and wish him the best in his future endeavors.”
Elliott’s tenure with the Cowboys, spanning eight seasons, solidified his place among the franchise’s all-time greats. Drafted fourth overall in 2015, he amassed 8,488 rushing yards and 71 touchdowns, ranking third in both categories in Cowboys history. However, the 2024 season proved to be a challenging one for Elliott, who recorded career lows in rushing yards (226) and yards per carry (3.1) during his return to Dallas.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, Elliott was benched prior to the Cowboys’ Week 9 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons due to disciplinary reasons, including missed meetings. While Jones acknowledged Elliott’s exemplary character and work ethic, he emphasized the importance of adhering to team rules.
“Zeke understands the decision,” Jones explained. “He’s a fantastic teammate and one of the hardest workers I’ve encountered. This disciplinary action was solely due to his tardiness for meetings.”
Despite the recent challenges, Jones remained effusive in his praise for Elliott’s contributions to the Cowboys. “Zeke embodies the qualities of a true football player,” Jones asserted. ”He’s a model teammate. however, we have established rules, and it’s crucial that everyone adheres to them.”
Elliott’s departure leaves a void in the Cowboys’ backfield, but it also opens the door for him to pursue a fresh start with a team poised for a deep playoff run. as he enters waivers, the football world awaits to see where the next chapter of his career will unfold.
“A Farewell Fit for a Star?”: An Interview with Hall of Fame Running Back Emmitt Smith on Zeke Elliott’s departure
Welcome back to “Gridiron Gab,” your weekly dose of all things NFL. Joining us today is a Cowboys legend, a 3-time Super Bowl Champion, and the NFL’s all-time leading rusher, Hall of Fame running back Emmitt Smith! Emmitt, thanks for joining us.
Emmitt Smith: Always happy to be back on “Gridiron Gab.”
We’re hear to discuss the surprising news of Zeke Elliott’s release. Your thoughts, Emmitt?
Emmitt Smith: It’s a real head-scratcher, to be honest. Zeke’s been a cornerstone of this franchise for years, and while this season wasn’t his best, you don’t just let a talent like that walk away easily.
Do you think the Cowboys made the right call, especially considering his disciplinary issues and the emergence of Tony Pollard?
Emmitt Smith: That’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it? I understand discipline is vital, but Zeke’s a competitor. Maybe a change of scenery is exactly what he needs. Pollard has shown flashes of brilliance, but he’s no Zeke. Losing that kind of experiance can sting in the playoffs.
Jerry Jones seems to offer a lot of praise for Zeke while concurrently parting ways with him. Is this truly a mutual decision,or is there more to story?
Emmitt Smith: With Jerry,you always have to read between the lines. I believe there’s more to it than meets the eye.Zeke probably voiced his desire for a fresh start, understanding his role within the team had diminished. Jerry’s doing what he thinks is best for the Cowboys,but I’m sure there was a negotiation involved,perhaps a contract situation nobody’s talking about.
Where do you see Zeke ending up? There’s been talk of playoff-bound teams like the Bills and the Bengals being interested.
Emmitt Smith: Zeke’s a proven winner, and every team needspunch in the playoffs. The Bills need a reliable ground game to complement Josh Allen. And the bengals could definitely use another weapon alongside Joe Burrow.
Do you think Zeke will be able to recapture the magic of his early years in Dallas? He doesn’t seem to be the same dominant back we once knew.
Emmitt Smith: It’s not about the magic anymore; it’s about the right opportunity. Zeke still has gas in the tank. He needs a system that utilizes his strengths and minimizes his weaknesses.If he finds that, he can contribute considerably to a playoff run.
A lot of Cowboys fans are reeling from this news. Any words for them, Emmitt?
Emmitt Smith: I understand their disappointment. Zeke is a Cowboy through and through.But this isn’t the end of his story. He’ll land on his feet, and I wouldn’t be surprised to see him shine again.And as for the Cowboys, they need to figure things out quickly. The playoffs are just around the corner, and they can’t afford to take any shortcuts.
Emmitt Smith,always insightful,always a pleasure. Thanks for joining us on “Gridiron Gab.”
Emmitt Smith: My pleasure. Go Cowboys!
What do YOU think about Zeke’s departure? Is this the right move for the Cowboys? Where does Zeke fit best? Sound off in the comments below!
