The Dallas Cowboys have officially parted ways with running back Ezekiel Elliott, a move that closes the chapter on a turbulent period for both the player and the team. This release marks the second consecutive season that Elliott and the Cowboys have gone their separate ways, as the former star requested his release, seeking new beginnings after a distinguished yet recently declining career with Dallas.
Head coach Mike McCarthy confirmed the decision, explaining, "It was a conversation that he asked for the opportunity to move forward." Elliott's time with the Cowboys will certainly be remembered fondly within the organization, as McCarthy pointedly noted his past contributions, stating, "Obviously, Zeke had great years here, and he will always be part of the Cowboys' history."
Rico Dowdle’s Emergence
In Elliott’s absence, the Cowboys have found unexpected success with Rico Dowdle, an undrafted player who has surged to the forefront of the team’s offensive strategy. Dowdle's rise is nothing short of remarkable. He has become a pivotal force in the Cowboys' running game, making history as the first undrafted player in the franchise to rush for 1,000 yards in a season. His recent performances have been instrumental, tallying 633 rushing yards since Week 11, which ranks as the fifth-highest in the NFL during that span.
McCarthy acknowledged Dowdle's significant impact on the team's dynamic, stating, "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." Dowdle's unexpected ascension has provided a significant boost to the Cowboys, filling the void left by Elliott’s departure with aplomb.
Competition Behind Dowdle
With Dowdle firmly established as the primary running back, the competition for the backup spot has heated up between Dalvin Cook and Deuce Vaughn. Cook, an experienced and proven talent, has found himself in the unfamiliar territory of having to prove his worth in limited opportunities. McCarthy praised Cook’s professionalism and readiness, remarking, "I can't say enough about Dalvin as a professional because he's been ready to play each week." Despite appearing in two games with only 20 yards on eight carries to show for his efforts, Cook remains a viable option for the Cowboys.
Meanwhile, Deuce Vaughn, known for his diminutive stature at 5-foot-6 and 176 pounds, has managed to make an impression in his limited appearances. With 33 rushing yards to his name, Vaughn demonstrates the potential and agility that could see him play a critical role on the Cowboys’ roster moving forward.
Ezekiel Elliott’s Legacy
As Elliott departs from the Cowboys, his legacy remains a reflection of both prolific highs and challenging lows. Once the cornerstone of the Cowboys' offense, Elliott now faces career lows, marking declines in carries, rushing yards, and touchdowns. His average yards per game have dwindled to 15.1 as he battles to regain his former dominance.
Despite these challenges, Elliott's contribution to the Cowboys over his nine-year tenure cannot be overstated. He leaves a lasting imprint on the franchise, remembered for his early contributions and the hope he brought to the team and its fans. Elliott will always be acknowledged as a key figure in the Cowboys' history, cementing his status as one of the most significant players to don the team's iconic star.
As the Cowboys continue to navigate their evolving lineup and adjust to the new dynamics within their roster, the focus now turns to maintaining their momentum with Dowdle leading the charge. Whether Elliott finds success elsewhere or an eventual path back to Dallas remains to be seen. However, what is certain is that the Cowboys, under McCarthy's guidance, are prioritizing adaptability and resilience in this new era of their storied franchise.