The New York Jets are eyeing the addition of a seasoned running back to bolster their lineup, with Ezekiel Elliott emerging as a prime candidate for the team’s ambitious Super Bowl aspirations in 2024.
In a recent analysis by Ralph Ventre on SI.com, the Jets’ ongoing quest for talent at the running back position, as hinted by Robert Saleh’s remarks, was scrutinized. Ventre identified Elliott as the most enticing option available in free agency, with JK Dobbins and Joshua Kelley also floated as potential acquisitions.
“The former No. 4 overall draft pick is arguably the most appealing free agent remaining on the market. After a seven-year run with the Dallas Cowboys, the three-time Pro Bowl selection signed a one-year contract with New England and offered noticeable value to the offense.”
Despite being a relatively young player at 28 years old, Elliott’s performance as a rusher has shown signs of waning compared to his earlier NFL years.
Drafted fourth overall by the Dallas Cowboys in the 2016 NFL Draft, Elliott swiftly rose to stardom behind the Cowboys’ formidable offensive line, securing three Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro nods in 2016 and 2018.
Elliott’s impressive on-field achievements earned him a lucrative six-year, $90 million extension from the Cowboys in 2019, setting a record as the largest contract ever awarded to a running back at the time. However, the heavy workload took its toll on Elliott’s effectiveness, evidenced by a decline in his yards-per-carry average to 3.8 in his final season with the Cowboys in 2022.
Following his release from the Cowboys last offseason, Elliott signed a one-year deal with the New England Patriots. Despite posting a modest 3.5 yards-per-carry average, it’s worth noting that the Patriots lacked the caliber of offensive line support that Elliott had enjoyed in Dallas.
Nevertheless, Elliott’s extensive experience, with over 2,000 rushing attempts in the NFL and nearly 600 in college, raises concerns about his durability. With the wear and tear accumulating, Ezekiel Elliott may have only a few seasons remaining before contemplating retirement.
It will be interesting to see what the New York Jets choose to do at the running back position.
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