The End of the Road: A Tale of Dak Prescott, Ezekiel Elliott, and the Cowboys’ 2024 Season

The 2024 season for the Dallas Cowboys was meant to be a redemption story—an opportunity for Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott to “run it back” one more time. Both players had experienced highs and lows throughout their careers, but their bond was undeniable. From being key pieces of the team’s foundation, they had grown into leaders who were determined to push the Cowboys toward greatness. However, despite their hopes for “One More Dance,” the dream for a championship run came to an unfortunate and abrupt end.

The Cowboys’ Roller Coaster Ride: From Hope to Heartbreak

It was clear from the very beginning that 2024 was going to be a defining year for the Cowboys. Prescott, fresh off an injury-plagued season, was determined to lead the team back to the playoffs, while Elliott—who had been re-signed to add veteran leadership and experience—was poised to make an impact. The reunion between Prescott and Elliott was seen as a chance for the Cowboys to rekindle their past successes, and many fans believed that they could put together a deep playoff run.

However, things quickly started to fall apart. After a devastating loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 17, where the Cowboys were beaten 41-7, it became evident that the once-promising season had gone off the rails. The team, which had fought back from a 3-7 start to put themselves in playoff contention, was now eliminated from the postseason picture. The “feel-good” narrative of redemption was gone, and the Cowboys were left to play out the final weeks of a season that had promised so much more.

The Disappointing Reunion: Elliott’s Return to Dallas

One of the key elements of the Cowboys’ “run it back” strategy was bringing Ezekiel Elliott back into the fold after he was released in 2023 for cap-space reasons. After spending a season with the New England Patriots, Elliott returned to Dallas with hopes of contributing to the team’s success. The idea was simple: Elliott, alongside Prescott, would form a dynamic duo once again, helping the Cowboys push past their playoff disappointments.

But despite these hopes, things didn’t pan out the way anyone expected. Elliott struggled to find his rhythm in the Cowboys’ offense, and with Prescott sidelined early due to a major hamstring injury, the team’s offensive plans were thrown into disarray. Elliott, who had been a key part of the team’s offense for years, was relegated to a committee role and eventually phased out as the season progressed. His limited involvement in the offense only added to the growing sense of frustration within the organization.

By the end of the regular season, Elliott had requested his release from the team. His request was granted, but it came as a somber recognition that his time with the Cowboys had reached its conclusion. This chapter of Elliott’s career, filled with highs and lows, was officially over. The failure to meet expectations had been a bitter pill to swallow for a player who had once been the face of the franchise.

The Decline of an Era: Elliott’s Journey Through the Cowboys

Elliott’s career with the Cowboys was nothing short of legendary. From 2016 to 2018, he was one of the most dominant running backs in the league, leading the NFL in rushing yards per game each season. He had everything—power, speed, and vision—and was often the focal point of Dallas’ offensive attack. Only a six-game suspension in 2017 prevented him from claiming three consecutive rushing titles, cementing his status as one of the premier running backs in the NFL.

But the wear and tear of a heavy workload began to take its toll. By the time the 2020 season arrived, Elliott’s production started to dip. Over the next four years, he gained only 3,499 yards, averaging just 3.9 yards per carry. This sharp decline in production was difficult to ignore, and by the 2024 season, it had become clear that Elliott’s best years were behind him.

This season, Elliott posted career lows, averaging just 3.1 yards per carry. His struggles were exacerbated by the emergence of Rico Dowdle, who took over as the Cowboys’ lead back and flourished in the role. Elliott’s diminishing impact on the field mirrored the team’s overall struggles, and by the time he was phased out, the writing was on the wall.

Elliott’s Legacy: Respect and Gratitude from Jerry Jones

Despite the disappointment of his final season in Dallas, Ezekiel Elliott has earned a great deal of respect over the years. His leadership, professionalism, and commitment to the Cowboys never wavered, even during the roughest times. Owner Jerry Jones, who has always held Elliott in high regard, made it clear that he appreciated the running back’s contributions to the team. Elliott’s grit, work ethic, and team-first mentality made him an integral part of the Cowboys for nearly a decade.

As Elliott’s career seems to be winding down, it’s clear that the Cowboys organization has nothing but gratitude for what he brought to the table. Jerry Jones, recognizing Elliott’s immense contributions, allowed him to move on and seek a new opportunity with another playoff contender. This decision was made with respect, offering Elliott a chance to continue his career elsewhere, possibly with a team that could make a deeper postseason run.

A New Beginning: Elliott’s Next Chapter

Elliott’s journey with the Cowboys may have come to an end, but his career is far from over. With over 9,130 career rushing yards and a place among the top 40 rushers in NFL history, Elliott’s legacy is secure. He remains third on the Cowboys’ all-time rushing list, behind only Emmitt Smith and Tony Dorsett—two of the most iconic players in franchise history.

As Elliott moves on to his third NFL team, he will bring with him the experience, wisdom, and determination that made him a star in Dallas. He will likely have a chance to contribute to a championship contender, playing for a team that will appreciate the leadership and skill set he offers. Whether it’s in a backup role or a more prominent spot, Elliott has the chance to leave one final mark on the NFL.

The End of the Road, But Not the End of the Legacy

While the 2024 season may have been a disappointing one for the Cowboys, the legacy of Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliott will remain a key part of the franchise’s history. They were part of a golden era for the Cowboys, and their contributions will not be forgotten. Though the season ended in heartbreak, the impact of Prescott and Elliott on the Cowboys’ culture and success over the years is undeniable.

For now, the focus shifts to Elliott’s next opportunity, and Cowboys fans will undoubtedly cheer him on as he continues his career with a new team. No matter where he ends up, one thing is certain—Ezekiel Elliott’s legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of Dallas Cowboys fans.