Cowboys releasing Ezekiel Elliott

The new year in the NFL officially started today. And among many news surrounding free agency, one stood up today (15). The Dallas Cowboys are releasing RB Ezekiel Elliott after seven years. The move will save Dallas $11 million in the salary cap.

Although he had a 12 ground touchdowns season that ended with the team playing in the playoffs for the second consecutive year, Elliott did not match his new contract value. In 2019 he signed a six-year, $90 million extension with the Cowboys. Since the new deal, his production on the field decreased a lot.

This season, the RB star had his worst personal performance in yards since he debuted in the league. Alongside that, he saw young Tony Pollard having a great season and assuming the protagonism in the running back position.

Jerry Jones, Cowboys’ owner, released a statement about the decision. “Zeke’s impact and influence is seared into the Cowboys franchise in a very special and indelible way. He has been a consummate professional and leader that set a tone in our locker room, on the practice field and in the huddle. We have mutually agreed with Zeke that the best decision for everyone is that he will be able to experience free agency”, said him among other things.

Ezekiel Elliott

The RB debuted in the NFL in 2016, after being selected as the no. 4 overall pick by the Dallas Cowboys. After his seven years with the Cowboys, he was selected 3x to the Pro Bowl, lead the NFL in rushing yards in two seasons (2016 and 2018) and only didn’t win OROY because Dak Prescott did.

He played a total of 103 games for the Dallas Cowboys. During that time he sums up 1,881 carries for 8,262 yards and 68 touchdowns. He is also a threat receiving passes and has already 305 catches, 2,336 yards and 12 TDs.