Ezekiel Elliott is embracing competition as he settles into his first NFL practices as a rookie.
The Dallas Cowboys top pick went through his first OTA session last week and admitted that the speed of the NFL was a bit of a revelation for him.
"Just a lot faster pace," Elliott told the team's official website. "The game moves so much faster."
The 20-year-old became Ohio State's leading rusher in just three seasons -- which propelled him to the top of the running back draft board in the 2016 NFL Draft.
Many expect Elliott's adjustment to the speed of the game to be smooth sailing. The No. 4 overall pick figures to have a prominent role in the Cowboys' offense. Yet he'll have to earn his keep if he wants to be an every-down running back in 2016.
Dallas running backs coach Gary Brown told the Cowboys' official website that "(Elliott) has to earn it."
"I think that's the best thing for our team and for those guys going forward," Brown said.
Elliott will have to beat out last year's starter Darren McFadden who rushed for 1,089 yards and had three touchdowns in 2015. The backfield competition also includes free-agent signee Alfred Morris.
Despite a crowded running back depth chart, Elliott is relishing the competition.
"Keeps you on your toes and make sure you're getting that work done," the rookie RB said.
