Ezekiel Elliott Departs from Dallas Cowboys Yet Again
The Dallas Cowboys have once again parted ways with running back Ezekiel Elliott. This marks the second consecutive season that the two have decided to go their separate ways, underscoring a significant shift in the team's running back strategy. Elliott himself requested his release, a move that indicates a mutual agreement on the benefits of parting ways. As Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy explained, "It was a conversation that he asked for the opportunity to move forward."
Elliott's decision to seek a release comes after a season characterized by career lows in carries, rushing yards, and touchdowns. With his yards per game having declined to 15.1 over his nine-year career, it seems both Elliott and the Cowboys are acknowledging that a change of scenery might be in the best interest of both parties. Despite the current downturn in his performance, McCarthy reflected positively on Elliott's time in Dallas, stating, "Obviously, Zeke had great years here, and he will always be part of the Cowboys' history."
The Rise of Rico Dowdle and the Running Back Committee
In the wake of Elliott's departure, Rico Dowdle has emerged as a key figure in the Cowboys' backfield. As an undrafted player, Dowdle has made impressive strides, becoming the first undrafted player in the team's history to rush for over 1,000 yards. His rise to prominence has been nothing short of remarkable. "We started this journey at the running back position looking to potentially be a running back-by-committee, and Rico clearly took the lead position," said McCarthy, underscoring Dowdle's impact on the team's strategy.
Since Week 11, Dowdle has amassed 633 rushing yards, ranking him fifth in the NFL for that period. His performance has not only secured him the leading role in the Cowboys' running game but has also bolstered the team's offensive capabilities. Dowdle's emergence as a force in the backfield highlights the Cowboys' ability to find and nurture talent beyond the draft picks.
Competition for the No. 2 Spot
With Dowdle firmly established as the leading back, the competition for the secondary role is heating up. Dalvin Cook and Deuce Vaughn are currently vying for the No. 2 running back spot behind Dowdle. Dalvin Cook, having been active in two games, has yet to make a significant mark, accumulating just 20 yards on eight carries. Nonetheless, McCarthy praised Cook for his professionalism, stating, "I can't say enough about Dalvin as a professional because he's been ready to play each week."
Meanwhile, Deuce Vaughn, at 5-foot-6 and 176 pounds, has shown flashes of potential with 33 rushing yards in limited opportunities. Though small in stature, Vaughn's agility and speed offer a unique option for the Cowboys' offense as they look to solidify their backfield lineup.
A New Era in the Backfield
The Cowboys' running back lineup appears dynamic and evolving as they move past the era dominated by Ezekiel Elliott. McCarthy's strategy of a running back-by-committee has been effectively realized with Dowdle's breakthrough and the ongoing competition between Cook and Vaughn.
As the Cowboys continue to adjust and refine their approach, their reliance on up-and-coming talent like Dowdle signals a transformative period for the franchise. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the team capitalizes on its new backfield roster and how this transition affects the Cowboys' overall performance in the seasons to come.