The New England Patriots have signed former Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott to a one-year contract on Monday.
Elliott saw career lows in 2022 with 876 rushing yards and a 3.8-yard per carry average, but proved to still be a viable goal line threat with 12 touchdowns with Dallas. He was released this offseason on March 15 by the Cowboys after seven years with the club, and visited with New England on July 29. The Patriots added a needed element to their backfield with the signing of Elliott. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reports that while the team loves Rhamondre Stevenson, New England had been seeking a back like Zeke who specializes in running between the tackles. Add in Elliott’s prowess as a pass-blocker and Bill Belichick’s squad got itself a useful component to the backfield. The deal is worth up to $6 million, with a $3 million base salary and a $1 million signing bonus, with up to $2 million in incentives.
Elliott later revealed himself on social media that he’ll wear jersey #15, his number during his illustrious career in college at Ohio State. The #4 draft pick in 2016, Zeke is third on the Dallas Cowboys all-time rushing list with 8,262 yards. New England visits Dallas in week four of the regular season.
Story by Chris Lessner
