Ezekiel Elliott, the former star running back of the Dallas Cowboys, has signed with the practice squad of the Los Angeles Chargers as they prepare for the upcoming playoffs. This move follows Elliott's release by the Cowboys just five days prior, allowing him the opportunity to play for a playoff-bound team as he pursues his first Super Bowl ring.
The decision to join the Chargers, reported first by NFL Media, aligns with Elliott's career ambitions. After losing his starting role to undrafted rookie Rico Dowdle—who recently accomplished his first 1,000-yard rushing season—Elliott requested his release from Dallas. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones stated the franchise acted "out of respect and appreciation for Zeke" and to provide him with the chance to pursue playoff participation.
Elliott, who was the fourth overall pick by the Cowboys in 2016, recorded 74 carries for 226 yards and three touchdowns during his time this season, marking the lowest rushing average of his career at 3.1 yards per carry. Nevertheless, the Chargers are optimistic about his potential contribution. The team has been beset by injuries among its running backs, with J.K. Dobbins recovering from knee surgery and Gus Edwards sidelined with ankle issues.
Having practiced with the team for just three days prior to their wild-card game against the Houston Texans, Elliott's experience and skills could prove invaluable. Offensive coordinator Greg Roman's system may require Elliott to adapt quickly, as he's expected to complement Dobbins and possibly step up if Edwards is deemed unfit to play.
The Chargers, holding the No. 5 seed at 11-6, are eager to end their playoff win drought, last achieving victory back in 2018. Elliott’s signing not only reinforces their depth at running back but also brings playoff experience to the roster as the team eyes advancement beyond the wild-card round.
While Elliott's transition has been abrupt, there’s hope within the Chargers' organization. His history includes two NFL rushing titles, with over 9,130 rushing yards and 74 touchdowns across nine seasons. Yet, this season’s struggles hint at possible declines, with Elliott not hitting the 1,000-yard mark since 2021.
The stakes for this game are high. The Chargers face the AFC South champion Texans on Saturday at 4:30 p.m. ET, and if Edwards remains out, Elliott could find himself elevated from the practice squad to contribute as needed.
While it remains uncertain how much Elliott can impact the team immediately, the signing marks another chapter for the talented running back eager to carve out his role on yet another team vying for postseason glory. With minutes to spare, the team will rely on his veteran presence, hoping he can regain some of his former prowess to help pave the way for playoff success.
Los Angeles is optimistic, indicating they landed on the right side of luck with this addition, and fans are eager to see how this reunion with football will play out as kickoff approaches for what promises to be a thrilling postseason matchup.