New England's Week 4 road trip to Dallas just got a little more interesting.
The Patriots are expected to sign former Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott to a one-year deal worth up to $6 million, NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero reported Monday, per sources.
Elliott was released by the Cowboys this offseason after seven seasons with the club. The 28-year-old had a free-agent visit with the Patriots on July 29.
Earlier Monday, Elliott posted a picture of himself with a new look. It ended up being a clue that he had a new team.
Elliott later revealed Monday that he will wear No. 15 in New England, his number during his illustrious college career at Ohio State.
The Patriots added a needed element to their backfield with the signing of Elliott. Rapoport reports that while the team loves Rhamondre Stevenson, New England had been seeking a back like Zeke who specializes in running between the tackles. Add in Elliott's prowess as a pass-blocker and Bill Belichick's squad got itself a useful component to the backfield.
Remaining Patriots RBs will have to fight for a roster spot upon the arrival of Elliott, however, with veteran Ty Montgomery, Pierre Strong Jr., Kevin Harris, J.J. Taylor and CJ Marable left in a crowded room.
There was some hope in Dallas that Elliott would return to the club that drafted him with the No. 4 overall pick in 2016, but New England swooped in with a contract that was in all likelihood more valuable than what the Cowboys had to offer.
Elliott saw career lows in 2022 with 876 rushing yards and a 3.8-yard per carry average, but proved to still be a viable goal line threat with 12 touchdowns.
Although his tenure with the Cowboys came to an unceremonious end this offseason, Elliott will have a rightful Dallas homecoming in Week 4 when the Patriots come to town.
Elliott ranks third on the Cowboys' all-time rushing list with 8,262 yards behind Hall of Famers Tony Dorsett (12,036) and Emmitt Smith (17,162), the NFL's all-time leading rusher.
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