In a dramatic turn of events, three-time Pro Bowl running back Ezekiel Elliott has found a new home on the Los Angeles Chargers' practice squad, a development that could have significant implications for both Elliott and the Chargers as they navigate the postseason.
Request for Release
Before their season finale, the Dallas Cowboys granted Ezekiel Elliott his request for release, marking the end of an era for the standout running back. Drafted fourth overall in the 2016 NFL Draft out of Ohio State, Elliott made an immediate impact in the league. His rookie year was nothing short of spectacular, leading the league with 1,631 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns. His phenomenal performance earned him a first-team All-Pro selection and his first Pro Bowl appearance, solidifying his status as one of the NFL's premier running backs.
Over his first three seasons, Elliott continued to dazzle, leading the NFL in rushing yards per game and reclaiming the rush title in 2018. Yet, in recent years, Elliott's production has seen a decline. Since 2021, he has struggled to surpass the 1,000-yard rushing mark or to average more than 3.8 yards per carry, a stark contrast to his early dominance. The decline eventually saw him lose the Cowboys' lead running back position to Rico Dowdle, who recorded his first 1,000-yard season.
First Step Toward Redemption
Upon his release, Elliott quickly signed with the Los Angeles Chargers, an 11-6 team in need of reinforcing their running back unit due to injuries. The Chargers are dealing with setbacks to key players, J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards. Dobbins, who rushed for 905 yards and nine touchdowns this season, has been plagued by a knee sprain that caused him to miss several games. Meanwhile, Gus Edwards has struggled with staying fit, further diminishing the Chargers' backfield options.
This context paved the way for Elliott's integration into the Chargers' squad. Despite his recent decrease in output, averaging only 3.8 yards per carry and rushing for a modest 226 yards and three touchdowns during the 2024 season, Elliott brings experience and a pedigree that the Chargers hope to leverage, especially if Gus Edwards remains sidelined.
Opportunity Knocks
For Elliott, this move represents a chance at redemption. Joining the Chargers' practice squad may seem like a less-than-glamorous gig for a player of his caliber, yet it positions him one step away from being called up to the active roster, especially as the Chargers prepare for a crucial postseason game against the Houston Texans. This game could be Elliott's opportunity to showcase his talents once again and prove that he still has what it takes to perform at a high level in the NFL.
Looking back, Elliott’s fall from grace highlights the volatile nature of a running back's career in professional football. Despite his early promise, the physical demands of the position, coupled with the evolving strategies in the league, can quickly alter a player's trajectory.
As Elliott starts a new chapter with the Chargers, speculation abounds on whether he can revive his once-prominent career. For now, his focus will be on making the most of his practice squad role and preparing to capitalize on any opportunities that come his way. If the situation with Edwards leads to Elliott's promotion to the active roster, all eyes will be on how he performs when handed the ball.
The narrative around Ezekiel Elliott continues to evolve. Whether this chapter leads to a resurgence or is merely a footnote in an illustrious career remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that Elliott’s journey is far from over and will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike as he aims to prove that he still has the elite skills that once made him a household name in football.