Official announcements from NFL teams or major sports news outlets

Cowboys Release Ezekiel Elliott; Jones Calls Him One of the Greatest

Dec 31, 2024, 09:20 PM

The Dallas Cowboys have released veteran running back Ezekiel Elliott at his request, allowing him to pursue potential playoff opportunities with another team. Team owner Jerry Jones confirmed the release in a statement, expressing respect and appreciation for Elliott and calling him "one of the greatest Cowboys players ever." This season, Elliott recorded career lows with 74 carries for 226 yards and three touchdowns in 15 games, averaging 3.1 yards per carry. He missed a game due to disciplinary reasons when he was left home from the Cowboys' game in Atlanta. Despite becoming a backup to Rico Dowdle, coaches praised his team-first attitude. Elliott, who has 71 rushing touchdowns—third all-time in franchise history—is now on waivers and, if unclaimed, will become a free agent. The decision to release him ahead of the finale against the Commanders was made to give him a chance to join a playoff contender.