Did Cowboys releasing Ezekiel Elliott lead to team's red-zone problem?

The Cowboys converted 6-of-15 (40 percent) red-zone attempts through their first three games, tied for 27th in the NFL. QB Dak Prescott has completed 11-of-24 passes and has yet to throw a TD to a WR in this area, via ESPN's Todd Archer.

Last season, Dallas ranked first in red zone offense, converting 40-of-56 attempts (71.4 percent). Elliott — who signed a one-year deal with the Patriots this offseason — contributed to team's success, as eight of his 11 rushes inside the 3-yard line went for TDs, per The Athletic's Chad Graff.

So, there is a correlation between Elliott's departure and the red-zone problem. In hindsight, the Cowboys should've considered offering him a pay cut before they released him. 

Nonetheless, the Cowboys can still rectify this issue. They could give RB2 Rico Dowdle more touches. (He only has 17 carries for 71 yards.) In a 28-16 loss to the Cardinals, the 25-year-old flashed potential when he scored a 15-yard TD on a screen pass from Prescott.  

Also, Dallas could sign another veteran power back, such as Super Bowl champion Leonard Fournette. 

Regardless, the Cowboys must solve the issue because it's their primary offensive weakness and will stymie their potential.