Running back Ezekiel Elliott is returning to Dallas to reunite with the Cowboys after spending a year away. According to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero, Elliott has signed a one-year, $3 million deal with $2 million guaranteed. Despite making over $70 million in his career with the Cowboys, Elliott is excited to be back home.
After being drafted by the Cowboys in 2016 and spending seven seasons with the team, Elliott had some spectacular seasons but saw a potential changing of the guard at running back when Tony Pollard was drafted in 2019. After leaving for the New England Patriots on a one-year deal following the 2022 season, rumors of a reunion with the Cowboys circulated after Pollard left for Tennessee Titans in the offseason. It became clear that both parties were interested in working together again when Elliott met with the team just before the 2024 NFL Draft.
With Dallas not selecting a running back in the draft and knowing that bringing back Elliott would be their next move, it is evident that he will once again wear a Cowboys uniform. While his reduced salary reflects current market conditions and declining on-field performance, Elliott is determined to prove himself once again in Dallas. Although he hasn’t hit 1,000 rushing yards since 2021 and had a lower average per game in 2023, Elliott believes he has more to give to his team. The Cowboys are optimistic about reigniting his career and helping him return to top form.