The Patriots are expected to sign former Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott to a one-year deal, according to NFL Media insider Ian Rapoport. The move adds depth to New England’s backfield, but it also hurts the statistical ceiling of the team’s most talented runner, Rhamondre Stevenson.
Elliott has seen his numbers drop in recent years, culminating in a 2022 campaign that saw him post career lows in rushing yards (876) and yards per attempt (3.8). He did rush for 12 touchdowns on 231 carries, though both of those totals are unlikely to be replicated. Instead, he’ll play the “Damien Harris” role in the offense. That might allow him some standalone flex value at times, but Elliott’s days of being a weekly starter in the fantasy football space are clearly in the rearview mirror. In fact, he’s now likely more of a late-round option as a higher-end No. 4 runner.
As for Stevenson, he should still lead this backfield in touches but is now more of a high-end No. 2 fantasy runner than a potential No. 1 option. Elliott could steal early down work and some of those important red- and green-zone looks, which would limit Stevenson’s upside. Elliott is also good in pass protection, which could keep him on the field more often (to the ire of Stevenson managers).
With Elliott now off the market, the Cowboys (who were rumored to be interested in bringing Elliott back), will be left to sign another veteran or go into the season as is. That would mean Malik Davis, Ronald Jones (suspended the first two games) and rookie Deuce Vaughn would be the top backs behind Tony Pollard.
Oh, and just in case the NFL didn’t have enough on-field drama and revenge game narratives … the Cowboys will host Elliott and the Patriots in Week 4.
