Ezekiel Elliott says ‘priority’ was convincing Dallas to take him back

Patriots

“It was my priority. I was doing what I could to get back here,” Elliott told a Texas newspaper.

After a one-year stint with the Patriots, Ezekiel Elliott is a Dallas Cowboy again.

New England picked up Elliott last year after the Cowboys cut him. Dallas drafted Elliott and he stayed for the first seven seasons of his career. He made three Pro Bowls and won two rushing titles during that span.

According to Ft. Worth Star-Telegram, Elliott’s goal in signing with New England was to prove he could still play so the Cowboys would draft him.

“It was my priority. I’m doing what I can to get back here,” Elliott said according to the report. “I have a lot left to accomplish here. I’m excited to get back with the guys and chase that ring.

Elliott led the Patriots in carries (184), rushing yards (642) and catches (51) last season. The Cowboys lost running back Tony Pollard in free agency.

Although Elliott averaged a career-low 3.5 yards per carry behind the New England offensive line, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said he believed Elliott still had a little gasoline in the tank.

“I know, I saw him as recently as the end of the year, I saw Zeke play,” Jones said. “And I’ll tell you, he’s good enough to be a starter.”

Elliott also believes he is still capable of being a starter in the NFL.

“I feel like I’m always up for it,” Elliott said. “I had the chance to start this streak last year. I felt comfortable in this role. I can’t wait to do what I need to do for this team.

Elliott said seeing the way another team is run was a valuable experience, despite the 4-13 season.

“I can play at a high level elsewhere,” Elliott said. “I went to New England. This was not a year we wanted. We struggled as a team. But it was cool to get a taste of another franchise and see how things play out.