New England Patriots running back Ezekiel Elliott enjoys playing for coach Bill Belichick.
Elliott signed a one-year deal with the team back in August, and he has filled in incredibly well in a backup role to running back Rhamondre Stevenson. He has tallied 497 yards and two touchdowns on 134 carries. The former Ohio State star has provided a one-two punch in the Patriots’ backfield.
As the starter in last week’s win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, Elliott had 22 carries for 68 yards and added a receiving touchdown. He had seven receptions and 72 receiving yards overall on the evening.
When speaking with the media, he praised Belichick’s tough coaching.
“I mean, he’s definitely a tough coach,” said Elliott, via NESN’s Dakota Randall. “I think he’s a tough coach. But if you’re a tough player, then you like to be coached tough. And so, I think every day he holds everyone in this building to the highest level.
“Everyone knows the standard. And I think he’s been consistent with that since I’ve been here, and I really respect that.”
It remains to be seen if Elliott will come back to New England next season. He has been a productive, complementary piece in the offensive backfield, and he may provide a stabilizing force for a Patriots team undergoing change.
