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Keeping Up Brave Face After Dallas Exit, Ezekiel Elliott Shows Up Smiling and Celebrating in Atlanta Colors

Published 07/06/2023, 7:53 AM EDT

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Almost everything has changed for the former Dallas Cowboys running back. With a post-June 1 designation, the Cowboys made the move to save $11 million on the cap for 2023, granting Elliott the freedom to sign with any team. However, there have been no clear signs of substantial talks with other teams at this point.

The end of the Ezekiel Elliott era in Dallas marked a significant shift for the veteran running back. Despite having four years remaining in his six-year, $90 million extension signed in 2019, the Cowboys ended the partnership. While a return to Dallas seemed like the ideal move for the two-time rushing champion, Elliott’s future remains uncertain. He has yet to find a new team, leading him to explore other activities beyond the realm of football.

Sipping with friends in his leisure

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Recently, Lax Gang Lil’tre shared a post featuring a smiling Ezekiel Elliott from Ohio State University background. In the picture, we can see Elliott in an Atlanta color outfit, holding a paper cup and enjoying alongside his friends at an event. Lil’tre captioned the post, highlighting their connection as he referred to them as “Runliketre FatBoy and The That Boy EZE #Buckeyes4L #NattyChamps #WeDidItFirst ⭕️🤷🏿‍♂️🙏🏿⭕️” Before this, Elliott made headlines when he was spotted working out with his close friend and America’s Team star, Dak Prescott.

Fans saw the two training on Prescott’s impressive 55-yard turf football field, located in the backyard of his home. Prescott referred to Elliott as his “best friend,” emphasizing the strong bond between the two athletes. While Elliott continues to put up a brave face and enjoys reveling in good company, his performances last season left the Dallas Cowboys contemplating their plans. Elliott’s performances did not meet expectations, leading to uncertainty surrounding his role within the team.

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But what is the story behind Elliott’s dismal performances last season? Let’s find out.

Elliott’s most underwhelming season of his career

Ezekiel Elliott, once a dominant force for the Dallas Cowboys, was released on March 15 following a disappointing season. He struggled to find his form, accumulating only 876 yards in 15 games. Elliott also lost his starting position to Tony Pollard. Despite having two years left in his six-year, $90 million deal, the Cowboys opted to cut ties with Elliott. This move paved the way for recuperating significant savings of approximately $11 million in cap space.

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From 2016 to 2018, Elliott showcased his talent by leading the league in rushing yards per game. He also became the franchise’s third all-time leading rusher with 8,262 total yards. However, injuries plagued him in 2022, allowing Pollard to surpass him in the Cowboys’ rushing offense.

Pushing Ezekiel Elliot Off the First Chair, Cowboys New Star Set to Sign Massive Extension as $21,400,000 Clears Up in Dallas

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Ultimately, the decision to release Elliott was influenced by a combination of his salary, fitness concerns, and the team’s desire to move on, despite initial indications of interest in retaining him. What do you make of Elliott’s off field activities? Let us know in the comments section below.

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Written by:

Bhwya Sriya

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Bhwya Sriya is an NFL Writer at EssentiallySports. With a Master's degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from an esteemed university, Bhwya tries to amalgamate her love for sports with her creativity. Her interest in sports arose when Bhwya represented her district on a race track in school.
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Edited by:

Amal Joyce