In a surprising twist ahead of the NFL's climactic postseason, three-time Pro Bowler Ezekiel Elliott has moved on from the Dallas Cowboys to the Los Angeles Chargers' practice squad. The change comes after Elliott requested his release from the Cowboys just days before the team's regular season finale, a request that the Cowboys honored.
From Dallas to Los Angeles
Elliott's departure from the Cowboys marks the end of an era for the star running back who was drafted fourth overall in the 2016 NFL Draft out of Ohio State. During his remarkable rookie season, Elliott led the league in rushing with 1,631 yards and 15 touchdowns, achievements that earned him a first-team All-Pro selection and a Pro Bowl nod. He continued to demonstrate his prowess on the field by leading the NFL in rushing yards per game during his first three seasons and again topping the league in total rushing yards in 2018.
However, Elliott's performance has waned in recent years. Since 2021, the dynamic running back has struggled to reach the 1,000-yard rushing milestone and has not managed to average more than 3.8 yards per carry. The downturn in his productivity coincided with the rise of Rico Dowdle, who eclipsed Elliott to become the Cowboys' lead running back. Dowdle celebrated his first 1,000-yard rushing season, further solidifying his position.
With changes in Dallas' backfield dynamics, Elliott's significance in the team faded, prompting his request for release. Shortly thereafter, he found a new opportunity with the Los Angeles Chargers' practice squad.
Chargers' Running Back Challenges
The addition of Elliott to the Chargers comes at a crucial time. The Chargers are an 11-6 team contending with multiple injuries in their running back department. Both J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards have struggled to stay fit. Dobbins, who managed an impressive 905 yards and nine touchdowns this season, missed several games due to a knee sprain. Edwards, similarly, has been sidelined by persistent physical setbacks.
Given these challenges, Elliott's proven track record and veteran presence could provide a vital boost for the Chargers as they approach the postseason. Should Edwards remain unable to play, Elliott may be called upon to step up to the active roster for their critical playoff matchup against the Houston Texans.
A Fresh Start
The move to Los Angeles offers Elliott a fresh start and the chance to revive his career in a new system. His statistics in 2024—226 rushing yards and three touchdowns, complemented by 69 receiving yards from 12 receptions over 15 games—reflect the reduced role he filled in Dallas, but also the potential contributions he could make in a Chargers uniform.
As the Chargers eye a deep playoff run, they may well see Elliott as a key figure, capable of injecting energy and depth into their offensive lineup. His experience and history of explosive play could be just what the team needs to bolster their run game amid the injuries plaguing their roster.
For Elliott, aligning with the Chargers represents not just a change of scenery but also an opportunity to prove that he still has what it takes to be a game-changing force in the NFL. The coming weeks will be pivotal, as he looks to cement his legacy and illustrate that he’s far from finished.