The Dallas Cowboys knew they needed a starting caliber running back before the start of the 2024 NFL Draft. They are adding one after failing to find a long-term solution in this year’s class.
The Dallas Cowboys didn’t draft Tony Pollard’s replacement
The Cowboys lost their 2023 starting running back, Tony Pollard, to the Tennessee Titans. Last week, reports emerged that the Cowboys were eyeing Texas standout Jonathon Brooks with the No. 56 pick. However, The Carolina Panthers traded up to nab him with the No. 46 pick.
The Cowboys would not use any of their eight draft picks this year on a running back. Even after owner Jerry Jones said he would be all-in on the draft, he refused to reach for the backfield. Jones said he thought former Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott was “good enough” to be a starter this year.
Ezekiel Elliott was expected to sign with the Cowboys
As previously discussed on GH, reports surfaced on Friday that the Cowboys were set to sign Elliott:
According to Michael Gehlken of the Dallas Morning News, the Cowboys might still draft a running back. Regardless of who the Cowboys take, the team is expected to sign Elliott shortly.
Elliott earned All-Pro honors twice and made three Pro Bowl appearances during his first stint in Dallas. The Cowboys released Elliott last season to save cap space. He signed with the New England Patriots, where he recorded 184 carries for 642 yards and three touchdowns. He has 2,065 carries for 8,904 yards and 71 rushing touchdowns in his eight-year NFL career.
According to Tom Pelissero with the NFL Network, the Cowboys have agreed to a deal with Elliott, and the three-time Pro Bowl running back will join the team once he passes a physical.
NFL fans’ initial reaction to the signing
Here are the best takes on NFL and Cowboys fans reacting to Elliott’s return.
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