Why the Cowboys Should (and Shouldn't) Reunite With Ezekiel Elliott

Why the Cowboys Shouldn't Re-Sign Ezekiel Elliott

1. Going Backwards, Not Forwards

Though Elliott can help the team, his return could also hold them back. If he returns, he's going to want a significant role. That could lead to not only taking away touches from Pollard, but also reverting the offense back into a run-heavy focus.

Dallas has shown a desire to evolve this offseason in order to reach the next step. They parted ways with Elliott in the first place, allowing a different kind of back in Pollard to lead the backfield. Offensive coordinator Kellen Moore was fired as well, inviting in a change in philosophy on that side of the ball.

Trading for Brandin Cooks and drafting pass-catching tight end Luke Schoonmaker shows a significant investment from the Cowboys in the air attack. It looks likely that the passing game, led by Dak Prescott, becomes the primary way this unit moves the ball in 2023. Pollard's dual-threat abilities play right into this, and it's clear how much better he fits an offense centered around throwing than Elliott does.

This change could ending up paying dividends as Dallas looks to realize its championship potential. I'd argue it's worth seeing how this experiment goes, rather than bringing back Zeke and making concessions to keep him happy.