Google News Ex-NFL GM on Ezekiel Elliott: A great leader but not an elite player anymore
by DZEVAD MESIC | VIEW 338
Former NFL executive Michael Lombardi says he would sign Ezekiel Elliott because he is a great leader but noted that it wouldn't be a massive deal since he considers the running back past his prime. Elliott, 27, was cut by the Dallas Cowboys.
Elliott, who led the NFL in rushing in his rookie season in 2016, has been statistically declining in each season since then. "I would love to have Zeke on my team because I think Zeke's a great leader, I think Zeke can catch the ball.
He's just not an elite player. Again, Tony Soprano, remember, 'when' is the lowest form of conversation. When you start to remember the 'when' about a player, you pay them based on 'remember when,' you're going to be out of work," Lombardi said on The GM Shuffle, per Athlon Sports.
Why the Cowboys cut Elliott?
In 2019, Elliott signed a gigantic five-year, $90 million deal. This past season, Elliott averaged 3.8 yards per carry for 876 yards and 12 touchdowns. Elliott's numbers weren't matching up the money he was being paid so the Cowboys decided to move on from the running back.
But after the Cowboys released Elliott, quarterback Dak Prescott admitted he was hurt. “It’s tough. It really is. It’s tough. Playing the game with a brother. Being able to start this NFL career and share so many memories, and grow up as men with this organization, I really can’t imagine taking the field without him.
It’s something that I don’t know if it has completely hit me yet. Obviously I’ve talked to him. I’m hurt. I’m sure he is. But it’s more important for me to just be able to support him. I know he’s got more opportunities coming his way.
I love that guy. Proud of him. I’m the No. 1 supporter for him no matter what," Prescott said of Elliott's departure. Elliott is now a free agent and it remains to be where he will land next.
