In a move that marks the conclusion of a significant chapter in both Ezekiel Elliott’s career and the Dallas Cowboys’ history, the franchise has waived the former star running back as the season draws to a close. This is not the first time Elliott has been let go by the Cowboys, illustrating both the complexities of his tenure with the team and the practical realities faced by professional sports organizations. Wrapping up his time as Dallas’s No. 3 rushing leader comes with emotions that span gratitude, nostalgia, and concern for the future.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones articulated the sentiment when he stated that Elliott will always be regarded as one of the franchise’s greatest players, whose achievements are cemented in their record books. However, this call to release the player does not merely signify an end—it serves as an opportunity for Elliott, now 29, to seek a spot with a playoff contender. By allowing him to clear waivers, the Cowboys are both respecting his contributions and acknowledging the player’s still-vibrant aspirations in the league.
Elliott’s time with the Cowboys has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, beginning with a spectacular rookie season in 2016, where he led the NFL in rushing yards with an astonishing 1,631. With a blend of power running and speed, he quickly became the centerpiece of the Cowboys’ offensive strategy. But the journey has also been marred by inconsistencies, injuries, and, ultimately, diminishing returns on the field.
From 2016 to 2022, Elliott amassed a staggering 8,262 rushing yards, securing a reputation as one of the premier backs in the league. Yet, the trends of a declining trajectory became clearer in recent years; his yardage has dropped annually since 2020 when he surpassed 1,000 yards for the last time. With performances that failed to excite, questions began to bubble around his capacity to be the dominant tailback the team needed.
The decision to waive Elliott comes as no surprise considering the modern NFL landscape, where salary cap management is integral to building a competitive roster. Elliott had signed a one-year deal with performance incentives, but alas, halfway through the season, it became evident that he was not on track to meet those benchmarks. His lack of explosive plays—evidenced by failing to exceed 40 rushing yards in key games and not registering a run longer than 11 yards all season—suggested that both the coaching staff and analysts were grappling with a reality that mirrored Elliott’s wavering performance.
While he remained a presence in the locker room and offered support to younger teammates, the Cowboys had reshaped their backfield with Rico Dowdle stepping up as the lead back. Dowdle’s performance, surpassing 1,000 yards, highlights the shift within the team’s dynamics. Elliott’s struggle to translate his legacy into present-day contributions effectively led to his dismissal, showcasing the harsh realities of professional sports.
Despite the bittersweet nature of his release, hope remains for Elliott. His agent, Rocky Arceneaux, expressed his client’s enthusiasm for the upcoming opportunities, indicating that the former Cowboy has not publicly declared an end to his chapter in professional football. Although nothing is imminent, this crucial time might be just what Elliott needs to regain his footing and prove that he still has “a lot of good football left in him.”
The most poignant takeaway from Elliott’s departure is not merely a numeric count of his statistics or accolades but rather the deeper legacy he’s left behind in Dallas. For fans and teammates alike, he will always be remembered for his electrifying runs and dedicated approach to the game. The Cowboys now appear ready to embrace a new chapter, with Elliott standing as a symbol of both achievement and transformation in the increasingly competitive landscape of the NFL.
Ezekiel Elliott’s release from the Dallas Cowboys encapsulates a story of glory, struggle, and hope. While he may have departed from the franchise that propelled him to success, the door remains open for future engagement within the league, highlighting the enduring pursuit of excellence that characterizes professional athletes.