## Former Cowboys RB Ezekiel Elliott Signs with Chargers Practice Squad
**Los Angeles, CA** – In a surprising move, former Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott has signed a contract with the Los Angeles Chargers to join their practice squad. The move comes as a shock to many, considering Elliott’s status as a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time NFL rushing champion.
### Elliott’s Career in Dallas
Elliott was drafted by the Cowboys fourth overall in the 2016 NFL Draft. He quickly established himself as one of the league’s most dominant runners, rushing for over 1,000 yards in each of his first three seasons. In 2018, he led the NFL with 1,434 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns.
However, Elliott’s production declined in recent years. He missed six games due to injury in 2019 and rushed for just 979 yards. In 2020, he rushed for 1,056 yards but averaged only 4.0 yards per carry.
### Off-Field Issues
In addition to his declining production, Elliott has also been plagued by off-field issues. In 2017, he was suspended for six games for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy. He was also arrested in 2019 for possession of marijuana.
These off-field issues contributed to the Cowboys’ decision to release Elliott in August 2023. He had one year remaining on his contract with a base salary of $9.6 million.
### Opportunity in Los Angeles
The Chargers are hoping that Elliott can rediscover his old form in Los Angeles. The team is currently ranked 29th in the NFL in rushing yards per game.
Elliott will have an opportunity to compete for playing time behind starting running back Austin Ekeler. Ekeler is one of the most versatile backs in the league, but he has struggled to stay healthy in recent years.
If Elliott can prove that he is still capable of being a productive runner, he could earn a significant role in the Chargers’ offense.
### Impact on the Cowboys
Elliott’s departure leaves a big hole in the Cowboys’ backfield. He was the team’s leading rusher in each of his six seasons in Dallas.
The Cowboys are expected to turn to Tony Pollard as their starting running back in 2023. Pollard has shown flashes of brilliance in his limited opportunities, but he has yet to prove that he can be a full-time starter.
The Cowboys may also look to add a veteran running back in free agency or via trade. Some potential targets include Kareem Hunt, Melvin Gordon, and David Montgomery.
### Conclusion
Ezekiel Elliott’s signing with the Chargers is a major development in the NFL. It remains to be seen whether he can regain his old form in Los Angeles, but he has the potential to be a valuable addition to the team’s offense.
The Cowboys, on the other hand, will have to find a way to replace Elliott’s production. Tony Pollard is a talented runner, but he has yet to prove that he can be a full-time starter. The Cowboys may need to add a veteran running back to their roster in order to compete in 2023.