Could Ezekiel Elliott Make a Return to the Dallas Cowboys in 2025?
As the Dallas Cowboys continue to build their team for the upcoming NFL season, many fans and analysts are speculating whether former star running back Ezekiel Elliott could make a return to the Cowboys. After spending seven of the past nine seasons with Dallas, Elliott became a prominent figure in the team's offense. Although he’s no longer the starting-caliber back he once was, experts believe his familiarity with the Cowboys' system could make him a valuable asset.
After a brief stint away from Dallas in 2023, Elliott returned in 2024 but played a reduced role. Despite appearing in 15 games, he started just two, finishing with 74 carries for 226 yards and two touchdowns. While Elliott’s performance has diminished in recent seasons, Bleacher Report’s Scott Polacek believes the Cowboys could benefit from bringing him back in a smaller, goal-line role.
Elliott’s connection with quarterback Dak Prescott and his experience in Dallas’ offensive scheme make him a potentially ideal option for a Cowboys team that is looking to add depth to their running back room. Although Elliott may not be the dynamic back he once was, his leadership and experience could help stabilize a backfield that currently lacks top-tier talent.
Dallas Cowboys' Bold Move in the 2025 NFL Draft
The Cowboys made an unexpected move in the 2025 NFL Draft by selecting offensive guard Tyler Booker with the 12th overall pick. This decision was seen as a response to the retirement of future Hall of Famer Zack Martin, a key player on the Cowboys’ offensive line for many years. Although Booker was projected to be taken later in the draft, the Cowboys felt it was crucial to reinforce their offensive line to maintain a strong foundation for their offense.
The Cowboys’ draft pick also signals their commitment to improving their offensive unit, especially after losing running back Rico Dowdle to the Tennessee Titans. Many had expected the Cowboys to target a running back in the draft, but with Dowdle’s departure, the team could still be looking to add more talent to their backfield.
The Cowboys’ Next Steps in Building the RB Room
While bringing back Elliott could help stabilize the running back position, the Cowboys are likely to continue searching for a more dynamic option to lead the charge. Adding a reliable veteran like Elliott would give the Cowboys valuable depth, but they are still expected to explore other avenues, including the possibility of acquiring a running back through trade or the draft.
The Cowboys' running back room remains one of the team's key areas of focus as they work to improve their roster heading into the 2025 season.