The New England Patriots are setting their sights on prominent free-agent running backs, with Ezekiel Elliott being the latest name of interest.
As per NFL analyst Jordan Schultz, the Patriots have arranged a meeting with Elliott this Saturday. This will be the first team interaction for the running back since his release from the Dallas Cowboys in March, as reported by ProFootballTalk.
Besides Elliott, the Patriots are also said to be considering Dalvin Cook as a potential reinforcement behind their projected starting running back, Rhamondre Stevenson. Both Elliott and Cook are among the most sought-after available running backs, with Cook slated for a meeting with the Jets on the same day.
Previously, it was speculated that the Cowboys might re-sign Elliott at a reduced salary. However, such prospects have dwindled over the past few months. Elliott has expressed interest in joining the Jets, Bengals, and Eagles, but there doesn’t seem to be reciprocal interest from these teams.
Zeke never was able to produce the numbers of his rookie season in Dallas
Wherever Elliott lands, it will mark his second NFL team in a seven-year career. The thrice-selected Pro Bowler has been with the Cowboys since they picked him fourth overall in the first round of the 2014 draft.
Elliott‘s inaugural season remains his best, where he accumulated 1,631 yards, scored 15 touchdowns, and averaged 108.7 yards per game. Last season, the 27-year-old player managed a career-low 876 yards and 12 touchdowns. He was part of the Cowboys’ unusual end-of-season game against the 49ers in the divisional playoff round, where he curiously played as center in the final play that did not alter the 49ers’ 19-12 lead.
With Elliott gone, Tony Pollard is poised to be the Cowboys‘ undisputed lead back this season.
