Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has addressed the concerns surrounding Ezekiel Elliott’s limited involvement in the team’s offense during the first five games of the season. According to reports from Clarence Hill Jr., the veteran running back expressed confusion and frustration over his reduced role, particularly within the red zone. Despite these claims, Jones offered a different perspective, suggesting that Elliott’s reaction has been exaggerated. As the Cowboys prepare for Week 6, Elliott has recorded just 98 rushing yards and one touchdown on 30 carries, with Rico Dowdle taking the lead in the backfield.
During his regular appearance on the radio show 105.3 The Fan, Jones explained that the Cowboys are intentionally pacing Elliott to ensure he is fresh for the latter part of the season, a strategy influenced by his history of injuries. Jones described the reports of Elliott being “dumbfounded” as overstated, emphasizing that the coaching staff is strategically managing his workload. He noted that the decision to feature Dowdle more prominently is a calculated move, not a sign of dissatisfaction with Elliott’s performance.
Jones reiterated that protecting Elliott’s health is a priority, particularly given the rigors of a long NFL season. “We are saving him, and that’s exactly what we should be doing,” Jones stated. He also praised Dowdle for his abilities, highlighting that injuries have been the only significant barrier in his career. The coaching staff’s approach is designed to minimize risk for both running backs, with Elliott being seen as an essential asset for the team’s success later in the season.
While Elliott’s reduced role has sparked debate, the Cowboys’ decision to rotate running backs could prove beneficial as they face tougher defensive matchups, such as their upcoming game against the Detroit Lions. The Lions’ run defense currently ranks seventh in the league, and with Dallas entering Week 6, the team’s ability to adapt and utilize both backs may be key to securing a victory.
In closing, Jones made it clear that Elliott remains a vital part of the Cowboys’ offense, and the plan to preserve his strength is based on long-term strategy, not a reflection of his ability. As the season progresses, fans can expect to see Elliott play a more prominent role, particularly in high-stakes situations as Dallas pushes toward a playoff run.
