Ezekiel Elliott has been a key figure in the Dallas Cowboys offense for years, but lately, whispers of the star running back being “washed” have started to circulate. These criticisms stem from his recent dip in performance and his declining usage on the field. However, Elliott’s father, Stacy Elliott, isn’t taking these allegations lightly. He has issued a bold $10,000 challenge to critics, daring them to prove his son’s career is over.
Ezekiel Elliott’s Usage Decline and Injury Concerns
Earlier this year, Ezekiel Elliott expressed his frustration with his limited role in the Cowboys’ offense, hinting that he wasn’t being given enough opportunities to showcase his talent. While fans and analysts speculated on his diminishing form, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones was quick to clarify that the reduced workload was largely due to injury concerns.
“He’s had injury problems throughout his career. So it would be crazy to rely solely on him for the entire season and into the playoffs.”
The $10,000 Challenge: Show Me the Proof!
Elliott’s father, Stacy, took a firm stance in defense of his son during an appearance on the popular podcast The Final Word. He directly addressed the critics, stating that anyone who thinks Ezekiel is washed up should come forward with proof. To back up his confidence, Stacy Elliott issued a $10,000 challenge to anyone who could produce a tape that supports the claim.
“If you say he’s washed up, show me the tape. If you say his career is over, show me the tape. And I’ll pay you $10,000.”
Despite this challenge, fans who have posted breakdowns of Ezekiel’s recent performances have not convinced Stacy Elliott to concede. It seems the Elliott family is standing firm against the negativity surrounding the Cowboys running back.
Did the Cowboys Miss Out on Derrick Henry?
As the debate around Ezekiel Elliott’s form continues, another question looms large: did the Cowboys make a mistake by sticking with Elliott instead of pursuing Derrick Henry?
Both Elliott and Henry were drafted in 2016, but their careers have taken very different paths. This season, Henry has outperformed Elliott by a staggering margin, recording nearly eight times the rushing yards that Elliott has managed in 2024. While Henry is thriving with the Baltimore Ravens, forming a formidable partnership with quarterback Lamar Jackson, Elliott has struggled to regain the form of his rookie season.
Jerry Jones had the chance to bring Derrick Henry to Dallas but opted against it, citing financial constraints.
“We didn’t have the money for it,” Jones remarked, explaining the team’s decision to re-sign Elliott instead.
The Cowboys brought Elliott back on a one-year, $3 million contract after he had a brief stint with the New England Patriots in 2022. But as the season progresses, the decision to not pursue Henry could end up haunting the Cowboys, especially with Henry continuing to dominate the field for Baltimore.
Ezekiel Elliott’s Career: Is There Still Hope?
It’s undeniable that Ezekiel Elliott’s best year remains his rookie season in 2016, when he rushed for a whopping 1,631 yards. Since then, injuries and a decrease in explosiveness have hampered his ability to replicate that level of performance.
The big question now is whether Elliott can turn things around in the remainder of the 2024 season. With more than half the season left, the door isn’t fully closed on a potential resurgence, but the pressure is mounting. If he fails to deliver, it wouldn’t be surprising if the Cowboys decide to move on from their longtime star at the end of the season.
What Lies Ahead for Ezekiel Elliott and the Cowboys?
The Cowboys’ decision to stick with Ezekiel Elliott has come under intense scrutiny as they face the reality of his diminishing returns. Meanwhile, Derrick Henry is proving to be one of the best investments the Ravens could have made, leaving Cowboys fans wondering what could have been.
For Elliott, the remainder of the season could be a defining moment in his career. Can he rise to the occasion, silence his critics, and prove that he still has what it takes to be a top-tier running back? Or will the Cowboys look to part ways with their star player after this year?
As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Ezekiel Elliott. The $10,000 challenge issued by his father may just be the spark that motivates him to reclaim his place as one of the NFL’s elite running backs.
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