The Los Angeles Chargers are signing running back Ezekiel Elliott, according to multiple reports.
The 29-year-old Elliott was released by the Dallas Cowboys ahead of the team’s regular-season finale against the Washington Commanders. Elliott reportedly requested his release, and it was the second time in three seasons that the Cowboys released the veteran running back.
A three-time Pro Bowl selection, Elliott was an instant star for the Cowboys after the team selected the Ohio State standout with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2016 NFL draft. He led the NFL in carries and rushing yards in two of his first three seasons. His 322 carries for 1,631 yards and 15 touchdowns during his rookie season remain career-highs.
As his on-field production dipped, the Cowboys released Elliott after the 2022 season and he was picked up by the New England Patriots. He had 955 total yards and five touchdowns with the Patriots before hitting free agency last offseason and signing a one-year deal to return to the Cowboys. During the 2024 season, Elliott was a backup to Rico Dowdle, who posted a 1,000-yard rushing season. Elliott, meanwhile, had 74 carries for 226 yards. Both numbers were career-lows.
NFL STATS CENTRAL: The latest NFL scores, schedules, odds, stats and more.
With running back Gus Edwards sidelined with an ankle injury, the Chargers could elevated Elliott to the active roster as a backup to J.K. Dobbins. The Chargers face the Houston Texans on Saturday in the wild-card round of the NFL playoffs.
All the NFL news on and off the field. Sign up for USA TODAY’s 4th and Monday newsletter.
The USA TODAY app gets you to the heart of the news — fast. Download for award-winning coverage, crosswords, audio storytelling, the eNewspaper and more.
