Ezekiel Elliott recently returned to the Dallas Cowboys in free agency and expressed his belief that he can reclaim his status as the team’s top running back. However, sports commentator Skip Bayless disagrees, stating that Elliott’s performance in recent seasons has not lived up to his earlier success. While Elliott led the NFL in rushing during his rookie season and again in 2018, his yards per game have steadily declined over the years, leading Bayless to question his current abilities on the field.
Despite Bayless’ doubts, the Cowboys are giving Elliott the opportunity to prove himself once again. With the departure of Tony Pollard, last season’s starter and Elliott’s former backup, to the Tennessee Titans in free agency, the team is looking for Elliott to step up and lead the rushing game. Owner Jerry Jones had hinted at the possibility of drafting a running back in the 2024 NFL Draft, but ultimately did not do so, signaling his confidence in Elliott’s capabilities moving forward. However, Bayless views Elliott’s return as a distraction tactic by Jones to deflect criticism over the team’s lack of aggressive moves in free agency.
Jones and the Cowboys’ front office have faced backlash for not making significant moves to support star quarterback Dak Prescott, who is entering the final year of his contract with no extension in sight. Bayless has been vocal in criticizing Jones on various platforms, accusing him of neglecting the team’s needs while focusing on less pressing matters. Drawing comparisons to the Roman Emperor Nero, Bayless suggested that Jones is “fiddling around” while the Cowboys’ prospects fade, causing concern among loyal fans who are eager to see the team succeed.
While Bayless acknowledges his personal fondness for Jones, he remains critical from a fan’s perspective, expressing disappointment in the team’s direction under the owner’s leadership. Jones has faced scrutiny for the lack of strategic decisions in building a competitive team around Prescott, who is a key asset for the Cowboys. As the upcoming season approaches, fans are looking to Elliott to prove his critics wrong and show that he can still perform at an elite level as the team’s primary running back, despite the doubts raised by commentators like Bayless. Only time will tell if Elliott can rise to the challenge and help the Cowboys achieve success on the field.
