Jerry Jones is saving Ezekiel Elliott for an undisclosed role later in the season. The 81-year-old owner of the Dallas Cowboys did not provide any further information about his plan for the veteran running back.
It was a nonsensical answer to a question that has been asked by multiple parties all year.
Elliott signed with Dallas during the offseason on a one-year deal worth up to $3 million. He proved to be a valuable role player with the New England Patriots last season but has yet to receive any legitimate opportunity so far this season.
Cowboys reporter Clarence Hill Jr. reported on Thursday that Elliott is “dumbfounded” by his lack of role with the organization thus far. Dallas gave him only six touches against Pittsburgh on Sunday and he has less than 100 rushing yards on 30 total touches this entire season.
Elliott spoke with coaches about his role earlier this week after addressing the lack of use with the media.
It’s definitely a little different but keep your head down. I just focus on being a good teammate. I’ve been focusing on continuing to help lead this team and I’m not making it about me, it’s about this football team [winning].
— Ezekiel Elliott
Even though the 29-year-old ball-carrier is keeping his head up, the frustration is real and it is strange that the Cowboys do not give him the ball. He could be a powerful goal line back, at the very least.
And yet, all of the carries in every situation continue to go to Rico Dowdle.
When asked about the nonexistent role for Elliott, Jones proudly declared that it is on purpose. Dallas is apparently choosing not to give its former star any opportunities on purpose.
We’re saving him. And we should be. I can’t emphasize that enough.
— Jerry Jones
Jerry Jones did not provide any additional information about why the organization is saving Ezekiel Elliott or what it is saving him for. That would require him to be telling the truth. There’s just no way his answer is the actual, honest reason that the Cowboys are keeping their veteran running back on the sideline.