Ezekiel Elliott has inked a one-year contract with the Dallas Cowboys, with sources revealing to ESPN that the deal carries a maximum value of $3 million. The agreement marks Elliott’s return to the franchise that selected him fourth overall in the 2016 NFL draft.
In discussions preceding the draft, Elliott and his agent, Rocky Arceneaux, met with Cowboys officials. The negotiations culminated in a meeting at Dee Lincoln Prime, coinciding with the team’s pre-draft scouting dinner.
Cowboys executive vice president Stephen Jones expressed admiration for Elliott, highlighting his contributions to the franchise. With the departure of Tony Pollard in free agency, the Cowboys are pivoting to a committee-based approach at running back. The team has retained last season’s backup Rico Dowdle, acquired veteran Royce Freeman, and holds a roster including Deuce Vaughn, Malik Davis, and Hunter Luepke.
Elliott’s return evokes memories of Herschel Walker’s second stint with the Cowboys, during which he contributed behind Emmitt Smith and as a kickoff returner. Despite the team’s need for running back depth, they opted not to select one in the draft, instead prioritizing other positions.
Even if the Cowboys had chosen a running back in the draft, Elliott’s return was imminent. The 28-year-old running back, who was released by the Cowboys last year due to salary cap constraints, played a significant role in the team’s offense last season, amassing 642 yards rushing and 313 yards receiving.
While Elliott will not be expected to replicate his past dominance, his return brings stability to the Cowboys’ backfield. With 8,262 rushing yards over his tenure with the team, Elliott ranks third in franchise history behind Hall Smith and Tony Dorsett. The three-time Pro Bowler’s resume includes rookie records and multiple seasons leading the NFL in rushing.
In addition to Elliott’s signing, the Cowboys also reached an agreement with veteran linebacker Damien Wilson, adding depth to their defensive roster. Wilson, who spent last season on the active roster without game participation, bolsters the team’s defensive options moving forward.
