Ezekiel Elliott's Uncertain NFL Fate: A Post-Week 1 Deal as a Lifeline?
Ezekiel Elliott, once a celebrated running back for the Dallas Cowboys, now finds himself in an uncertain position. After seven seasons with the Cowboys, during which he led the NFL in touches and yardage, Elliott is currently a free agent. His release from the Cowboys was a result of "caponomics," a term used to describe the financial strategies employed by NFL teams to manage their salary cap.
The Financial Implications of Elliott's Release
Elliott's release from the Cowboys was processed as a post-June 1 cut, providing the team with $10.9 million in cap relief. However, this move also left the Cowboys with $5.82 million in dead money on this year's cap. Despite the financial implications, the Cowboys' decision to release Elliott was not entirely surprising. The final three years of his six-year, $90 million contract, signed in 2019, did not include any guaranteed money.
Potential Suitors for Elliott
Despite his current status as a free agent, Elliott's talent and experience make him a valuable asset for many teams. His official visit to the Patriots sparked rumors of a potential signing, although no deal has been confirmed yet. Other teams, including the Buccaneers, Eagles, Bengals, and Jets, have also been linked to Elliott. However, these potential suitors are reportedly approaching Elliott's prospects with caution, possibly aiming for a "bare minimum" investment.
The Significance of a Post-Week 1 Deal
A post-Week 1 deal could potentially salvage Elliott's career. Such a deal would allow a team to sign Elliott without any contractual commitments. This strategy could be beneficial for both parties, as it would provide Elliott with an opportunity to prove his worth on the field while minimizing financial risk for the team.
Elliott's Future in the NFL
Despite the uncertainty surrounding his career, Elliott remains optimistic about his future in the NFL. He has expressed his desire to continue playing, and his skills and experience make him a valuable asset for any team. As the NFL season progresses, it will be interesting to see where Elliott ends up and how this chapter of his career unfolds.