As expected, Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott returned to the practice field Tuesday.
NFL Media's Jane Slater reported that the rookie is participating in individual drills after dealing with a hamstring tweak.
Video evidence of Elliott in pads:
The No. 4 overall pick had tweaked his hamstring two weeks ago. The Cowboys planned to take it slowly with their stud rookie runner.
Elliott took part in some walk-throughs, but after missing the team's first preseason game, getting him back on the practice field in pads is a positive step.
After practice, Elliott told reporters he expects to back on the field next week "full speed."
"I've never had a hamstring problem before, so this my first one," Elliott said. "I didn't feel it pop or pull or anything. I just felt it strain, kind of tighten up and that's why I decided to slow it down because it's really not worth it going out there and hurting it even more."
More Elliott cutting:
Expect the Cowboys to play it safe with their top pick, especially given that hamstrings can be a nagging, persistent injury if not fully healed. We certainly plan to see Elliott on the field Week 1.
When finally healed, Elliott has the talent to be a three-down workhorse back behind one of the best offensive lines in the NFL and the focal point of Dallas' offense.
