Ezekiel Elliott Leaves Dallas Cowboys Again
The Dallas Cowboys have made a significant decision by releasing running back Ezekiel Elliott, marking the second consecutive year in which both Elliott and the Cowboys have chosen to part ways. This unexpected release comes on the heels of a request by Elliott himself, seeking to move forward from the team he has been a pivotal part of for several seasons. Head coach Mike McCarthy confirmed the player's intentions, stating, "It was a conversation that he asked for the opportunity to move forward."
This departure comes amid a transformative period for the Cowboys' running game, led by the unlikely rise of Rico Dowdle. Emerging from undrafted obscurity, Dowdle has rapidly become a cornerstone of the Cowboys’ backfield. As the first undrafted player in team history to rush for over 1,000 yards, Dowdle's meteoric rise has been a narrative few could have predicted. Reflecting on his role, McCarthy remarked, "We started this journey at the running back position looking to potentially be a running back-by-committee, and Rico clearly took the lead position."
Elliott's Numbers Decline, Dowdle Rises
In stark contrast to Dowdle’s ascent, Elliott has experienced a downturn in his nine-year NFL career. His statistics have hit career lows in carries, rushing yards, and touchdowns, with a noticeable decline in his yards-per-game average, now standing at a mere 15.1. This waning performance has certainly influenced both his and the Cowboys’ decision to seek new paths.
Meanwhile, Dowdle's performance since Week 11 has been nothing short of astonishing. Amassing 633 rushing yards in this period, he ranks fifth in the NFL—a testament to his unexpected yet well-deserved status as the leading figure in Dallas's offensive strategy. His emergence has not only provided the Cowboys with a dependable and effective runner but has also redefined the dynamics of the team’s backfield.
Competition Heating Up Behind Dowdle
As Dowdle solidifies his top position, the competition for the number two running back spot intensifies between Dalvin Cook and Deuce Vaughn. Cook, having participated in two games with 20 yards on eight carries, maintains readiness and professionalism that coach McCarthy appreciates. "I can't say enough about Dalvin as a professional because he's been ready to play each week," McCarthy acknowledged.
On the other hand, Deuce Vaughn, despite his smaller stature at 5-foot-6 and 176 pounds, is not to be underestimated. Vaughn has showcased his potential in limited opportunities, accumulating 33 rushing yards. As both Cook and Vaughn vie for prominence, the Cowboys are assured of having depth behind Dowdle as they recalibrate their offensive strategies.
A Legacy and New Paths
Ezekiel Elliott leaves behind a storied legacy with the Dallas Cowboys. His tenure included numerous highlights that cement him as a significant part of the team's history. McCarthy offered a nod to Elliott's past contributions, stating, "Obviously, Zeke had great years here, and he will always be part of the Cowboys' history."
As Elliott navigates his way through free agency, seeking to rejuvenate his career, the Cowboys appear poised to explore their redefined running game with Dowdle at the helm. The transformation within the Cowboys’ running game signals a new chapter, one that balances past achievements with promising prospects.
As the Cowboys aim to compete at the highest level, the changes in their backfield dynamics will be central. The team is undoubtedly looking forward to embracing this new era, characterized by emerging talent and renewed strategy. Elliott's departure, though significant, opens the door for fresh opportunities and the evolution of a new Cowboys backfield identity.