After missing out on the DeAndre Hopkins opportunity, the New England Patriots got slammed. Yet, who knew they were saving their money to adorn their running back room with Ezekiel Elliott?
Coming off the worst year of his NFL career, the seven-year vet became homeless this offseason. In contrast, Bill Belichick was also searching for more running back depth. Hence, just before the regular season a great knot tied between the running back and the Patriots for this season.
Details on Ezekiel Elliott’s $6M contract
Per reports, the Patriots grabbed the opportunity to strengthen their running back room with the three-time Pro Bowler free agent for one year deal. With the deal happening, Zeke is slated to get a $3 million base salary along with a $1 million signing bonus that may be worth up to $6 million in further incentives.
Report: Patriots to sign three-time Pro Bowl RB Ezekiel Elliott: https://t.co/waTSqSJCzC
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) August 14, 2023
The 28-year-old was waived by the Dallas Cowboys on March 15 in order to comply with the salary cap. The two-time All-Pro visited the Patriots in hopes of being traded last month, but the two sides did not reach an agreement and continued to remain in touch.
After the deal, he tweeted, “One Five, all the way live!” to express his joy at the news. Although it was apparent during training camp that the Patriots lacked depth at running back, the former Cowboys player is anticipated to fill that void.
Ezekiel Elliott’s NFL career achievements
The Cowboys’ fourth-round choice in 2016 topped the league in rushing as a rookie, contributing to his previous team’s 13-3 record. Zeke had the most bearing on the game of any running back in each of his first three seasons, leading the league in rushing yards per game.
He carried for 8,262 yards throughout his seven seasons with them, placing him inside the top 45 all-time in the league. In 15 games, he averaged less than four yards per rush, for a total of 876 yards and 12 touchdowns during his final season with the Cowboys.
Ezekiel established himself as a legend while playing for the Dallas Cowboys, and as a Patriot this year, he would pay an appearance to the Cowboys on Sunday, Oct. 21, in Week 4.
What’s your take on the Patriots’ new signing? Do let us know your opinions in the comments section.
