After the Dallas Cowboys ended their season with a disappointing 7-9 record following a 41-7 defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 17, running back Ezekiel Elliott made a bold decision. Frustrated with the team’s trajectory and his role, Elliott requested his release from the franchise. Jerry Jones, the Cowboys’ owner and general manager, granted his request, marking the second time in Elliott’s career that he was released by Dallas.

Elliott, who began his NFL journey with the Cowboys as the fourth overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, had been a cornerstone of their offense for years. However, his performance and role had diminished in recent seasons, leading to his release after the 2022 campaign. Elliott spent a single season with the New England Patriots in 2023, showcasing flashes of his former dominance, which prompted Dallas to bring him back for the 2024 season on a one-year, $2 million deal. The return, however, was far from a fairy tale.

Contract and Incentives: High Stakes, Low Rewards

The Cowboys structured Elliott’s contract with performance-based incentives that seemed achievable but ultimately proved elusive. These included:

• $250,000 for achieving 1,110 yards from scrimmage plus a playoff berth.
• $250,000 for scoring 10 touchdowns plus a playoff berth.
• $500,000 for playing at least 51% of offensive snaps plus a playoff berth.

While these incentives added up to a potential $1 million bonus, they were contingent on both Elliott’s individual performance and the team making the playoffs. Unfortunately for both parties, the Cowboys were eliminated from postseason contention after Week 16, rendering the bonuses unattainable.

Elliott’s production during the season was far below the thresholds required to unlock these bonuses. Over 17 games, he recorded just 74 carries for 226 yards and three touchdowns—a shadow of the player who once dominated the league in rushing yards. Even if the Cowboys had clinched a playoff berth, the numbers needed in a hypothetical Week 18 performance were staggering: 874 yards and seven touchdowns in one game. Clearly, the incentives were more aspirational than practical.

Playing Time and Role in 2024

The snap-count incentive was theoretically achievable early in the season but quickly fell out of reach. Elliott played more than 50% of the Cowboys’ offensive snaps in just one game—the season opener against the Cleveland Browns. As the season progressed, his role diminished significantly. Over the final six games, Elliott’s snap share never exceeded 20%, highlighting his reduced importance in the Cowboys’ offensive game plan.

The writing was on the wall: Elliott’s time with Dallas was nearing its end. Both the team and the player seemed ready to part ways once again, this time likely for good.

Looking Ahead: A Fresh Start for Elliott

Now a free agent, Ezekiel Elliott faces an uncertain but intriguing future. At 29 years old, the former Ohio State standout is no longer the explosive, every-down back who twice led the NFL in rushing yards. However, he still brings veteran experience, solid pass protection skills, and a nose for the end zone—qualities that could make him a valuable addition to a Super Bowl-contending team in need of depth at running back.

For Elliott, the priority will be finding a team where he can contribute meaningfully and potentially compete for a championship. His decision to leave Dallas, a team mired in inconsistency and playoff disappointment, reflects his desire to play for a franchise with higher aspirations.

The Cowboys’ Perspective: A Closing Chapter

For the Dallas Cowboys, parting ways with Ezekiel Elliott marks the end of an era. Elliott was once the face of their offense, a player whose dynamic rushing ability complemented quarterback Dak Prescott in forming one of the league’s most potent duos. However, declining production and a shift toward a more pass-heavy offense diminished Elliott’s role, making his departure inevitable.

The decision to bring him back for the 2024 season was a gamble that did not pay off, as Elliott struggled to regain his form and the team failed to meet expectations. The Cowboys must now look to the future, likely investing in younger, more versatile options at running back to support their offensive strategy.

Conclusion: A Tale of Decline and Hope

Ezekiel Elliott’s second stint with the Dallas Cowboys serves as a cautionary tale about the fleeting nature of NFL careers, especially at the running back position. While his time with Dallas may be over, Elliott’s story is far from finished. As he embarks on the next chapter of his career, he carries the hope of revitalizing his legacy with a new team and chasing the elusive Super Bowl ring.

For the Cowboys, the departure of one of their most iconic players signals the need for a fresh start and a renewed focus on building a team capable of sustained success. As both parties move forward, the echoes of Elliott’s contributions to the franchise will remain a significant part of Dallas Cowboys history.