4 Low-Cost Running Backs the Cowboys Can Sign in Free Agency

2. Ezekiel Elliott

Ezekiel Elliott obviously isn't worth star running back money anymore, but he proved in 2023 that he's transitioned seamlessly into a role player type role that allows him to make a significant impact even though his best years are behind him.

His 3.5 yards per carry were the lowest of his career, but remember what I said earlier about that stat? New England as a team ranked No. 25 in the NFL in that stat, and he was rushing behind a thin, banged up offensive line.

His 69.2 rushing grade from PFF wasn't anything to write home about, but that's still a fine mark, having ranked 65th among 129 graded running backs.

He's also capable of playing both rushing and passing downs, making the offense a lot less predictable when he's on the field than it would be with Jones. His 51 receptions were right in line with the marks he tallied as a workhorse back in 2019 and 2020, and he remains one of the league's better pass-blocking running backs.

After earning just $3 million on his one-year deal in 2023, the 28-year-old Zeke should be very affordable for Dallas, and a reunion would be a lot of fun.