Did the Dallas Cowboys lose out on Ezekiel Elliott?

The 2023 NFL season has already given fans plenty to talk about, and one topic that's caught the attention of many is the Dallas Cowboys' decision to cut star running back Ezekiel Elliott from the team. While it's still early in the season, there are some signs that the Cowboys might already be missing the presence of their former ground game powerhouse, especially in the red zone.

Let's break down the stats and take a closer look at the situation.

Red Zone Prowess: Elliott's Legacy

Ezekiel Elliott, during his tenure with the Cowboys, was known for his ability to excel in the red zone. His powerful running style and knack for finding the end zone made him a key asset when the field shrunk. In the 2022 season, Elliott scored an impressive 12 rushing touchdowns, solidifying his reputation as one of the league's premier red-zone threats.

The Cowboys' Red Zone Struggles in 2023

Fast forward to the 2023 season, and the Cowboys are already experiencing some difficulties when it comes to punching the ball into the end zone, especially on the ground. While it's essential to remember that it's still early in the season, the numbers raise some questions.

As of now, the Cowboys rank near the middle of the pack in red-zone efficiency, converting touchdowns on just over 53% of their trips inside the 20-yard line. This is a noticeable drop from their 2022 performance when they ranked among the league's top red-zone offenses, with a conversion rate of over 64%.

The Missing Element: Elliott's Veteran Presence

One cannot help but wonder if the absence of Ezekiel Elliott is a factor in these early-season struggles. Elliott's experience, vision, and physicality were all assets that the Cowboys could count on when they needed to grind out tough yards in the red zone. His ability to pick up those crucial short-yardage situations was a key component of their offensive strategy.

While the Cowboys still have a talented roster, including young running backs with potential, there's something to be said about the veteran presence Elliott brought to the field. His leadership, football IQ, and understanding of situational football made him a valuable asset in close-game situations.

Conclusion: The Early Signs

In conclusion, it might be too early to make sweeping judgments about the Cowboys' decision to cut Ezekiel Elliott. However, the early-season struggles in the red zone do raise questions about whether his presence could have made a difference.

Elliott's ability to consistently find the end zone in the past suggests that the Cowboys might be missing a crucial element in their offense. While it's essential for the team to adapt and evolve, it's also worth considering whether parting ways with a proven red-zone weapon was a decision that could come back to haunt them as the season progresses. Only time will tell if the Cowboys made a mistake, but for now, there's a notable void in the red zone that was once filled by Ezekiel Elliott.