Three top landing spots for Ezekiel Elliott
Ezekiel Elliott is no longer a Cowboy. The veteran running back can sign with any team he wants. But where will he go? It all depends on what he wants.
Chicago Bears
If it’s money Elliott is after, no team has more to spend than Chicago. With more than $43 million in cap space available, the Bears can practically sign anyone they want. But do they want Elliott?
The Bears have a need at running back. David Montgomery is leaving for Detroit and only Atlanta ran the ball more than Chicago last year. Khalil Herbert has shown flashes but may not be an every down back.
Justin Fields wasn’t sacked on every down, it just seemed like it. The Bears quarterback tied Russell Wilson by taking a league-high 55 sacks in 2022. Elliott may not have much left in his legs, but no one can question his pass protection skills.
Los Angeles Chargers
If comfort is Elliott’s primary concern, he could always go play for his old offensive coordinator in Los Angeles. Kellen Moore spent three years with the Cowboys before joining the Chargers as offensive coordinator in February.
Austin Eckler has asked for a trade and if the Chargers oblige, Moore could use a back familiar with his scheme while Josh Kelley and Isaiah Spiller get comfortable with the system.
The Chargers have a healthy $20 million in cap space at the moment. As long as Elliott doesn’t try to break the bank, the Chargers would be a good fit.
Kansas City Chiefs
With over $70 million in his pocket after seven years with the Cowboys, maybe Elliott wants a championship. If he’s willing to take a pay cut, Kansas City would be his best option.
Seventh-round rookie Isiah Pacheco was the team’s best running back last season, but he could use some help. Clyde Edwards-Helaire has been a disappointment and Jerick McKinnon is used more as a receiver.
According to Bob Sturm of the Athletic, many scouts believe Elliott’s market value is now slightly above the league minimum, which for a seven-year player is $1.165 million. For that money, Elliott might as well join a contender.
Even with diminishing skills, Elliott’s 12 rushing touchdowns were third most among running backs last year. Meanwhile, the Chiefs had only 18 scores on the ground.
Honorable Mention (Houston Texans)
With a massive pay cut looming, Elliott may want to stay in Texas and avoid state income taxes. If so, the Houston Texans could use help at running back. Only Tampa Bay ran for fewer yards last year, and with $17 in cap space, they can afford to get Dameon Pierce some veteran help.
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