Ezekiel Elliott's desire to join a playoff contender has led him to ink a deal with the Los Angeles Chargers, marking another chapter in the veteran running back's career. According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, Elliott will be signing with the Chargers as part of their practice squad, with the organization hopeful he will assimilate quickly to their system.
The announcement of Elliott's signing came on the heels of his recent release from the Dallas Cowboys, where he spent significant time and made numerous contributions to the team. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport confirmed the details, stating, "The #Chargers are signing RB Zeke Elliott to their practice squad, source said, with the hope he gets up to speed quickly." This collaboration could see Elliott stepping onto the field soon as the Chargers aim for playoff success.
After finishing the recent regular season with the Cowboys, where he rushed for just 226 yards and three touchdowns, Elliott found himself at another crossroads. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones explained the rationale behind the release: "Out of respect and appreciation for Zeke and wanting to provide him with an opportunity to pursue any potential playoff participation possible, we are releasing him from the Cowboys roster today." This forthcoming move allowed Elliott to seek opportunities with other franchises entrenched in playoff contention.
Elliott's career has been characterized by significant highs, particularly during his early years with the Cowboys when he led the NFL in rushing and was crowned Pro Bowl selections multiple times. Selected fourth overall in the 2016 NFL Draft, Elliott garnered acclaim as both a rushing powerhouse and skilled offensive player. Yet, as his role diminished with Dallas—particularly with the emergence of Rico Dowdle—the need for fresh opportunities became clear.
Prior to his departure from the Cowboys, Elliott had requested his release following the culmination of the 2024 season. This season, he started behind Dowdle, and his limited utilization saw him struggling to make the same impact he once did, posting the lowest rushing average of his career at 3.1 yards per attempt. His diminished role culminated during the season finale against the Philadelphia Eagles, where he rushed for only two yards on three carries.
With the Chargers, Elliott brings experience as he joins a backfield already featuring J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards. The team is gearing up for their wild-card matchup against the Houston Texans, set to take place as part of the AFC playoffs. Elliott's experience could prove invaluable as he might be utilized to provide depth and tactical advantages during high-pressure moments.
The decision to sign with the Chargers didn’t come without consideration, as Elliott was reportedly courted by several playoff teams. Still, according to Schultz, he believed the fit with Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh and quarterback Justin Herbert was optimal for his playoff aspirations.
With the Chargers successfully clinching their playoff spot following an 11-6 regular season, Elliott aims to contribute effectively to their plans. His transition from Dallas to Los Angeles marks not only the end of a significant era with the Cowboys but also the promise of new beginnings with the Chargers.
Though his contributions may initially come from the practice squad, the Chargers coach and staff foresee moving Elliott to their active roster depending on the health of Dobbins and Edwards, advancing those strategies during postseason action.
This will be Elliott's fifth appearance during playoff contention. While his statistical impact may have reduced, the potential for magic during crunch time has not. His prowess as both a running back and competent blocker could resurface during high-stakes scenarios.
The Chargers are set to head to Houston soon, where they will meet the Texans on Saturday for their playoff opener. Kickoff is scheduled for 4:25 p.m. EST at NRG Stadium, marking the next chapter for Elliott as he aims to help propel the Chargers through the playoffs.
With expectations high and hopes pinned on veteran experience, Ezekiel Elliott's latest venture with the Chargers showcases the agility players must maintain as they navigate their careers amid the league's competitive nature.