Ezekiel Elliott has long been synonymous with the Dallas Cowboys, but as the 2025 NFL season approaches, speculation mounts about his future with the team. After a reduced role last season, many fans are wondering if Elliott could once again wear the iconic star and help stabilize Dallas’s backfield.

Ezekiel Elliott’s Recent Performance and Role

The last few years have been a period of adjustment for Ezekiel Elliott. Returning to the Cowboys in 2024 after a brief spell away, Elliott was no longer the primary workhorse, starting just two games and accumulating 226 rushing yards with two touchdowns in 15 appearances. While his dominance has diminished, his deep knowledge of the Cowboys' system and established chemistry with quarterback Dak Prescott remain undeniable assets.

According to a recent analysis from Jobaaj Stories, Elliott’s experience and leadership could make him an attractive option to bolster Dallas’s running back rotation. While he may not be the explosive back of his early career, his ability to handle short-yardage and goal-line situations could bring valuable consistency to the offense.

The Cowboys' Evolving Backfield Strategy

The Cowboys’ backfield is in transition, especially following the departure of Rico Dowdle to the Tennessee Titans. In the 2025 draft, Dallas surprised observers by selecting offensive guard Tyler Booker with the 12th overall pick. The move signals the team’s priority to reinforce their blocking schemes, a crucial step after losing veteran lineman Zack Martin to retirement. However, with no marquee running back added, questions linger about Dallas’s plans at the position.

Reports suggest that the franchise is keeping an open mind about their running back rotation, seeking not only stability but also a dynamic player who can make an impact. Bringing back Ezekiel Elliott as a rotational or situational player could help ease the transition, while the team reportedly continues to explore other options via trade or free agency. Discover more perspective on team strategies and the changing landscape for veteran running backs post-draft from Bleacher Report.

Leaders in the Locker Room: Why Elliott Still Matters

While statistics from recent seasons may not capture his full value, Ezekiel Elliott’s leadership and experience in high-pressure situations are highly prized inside the Cowboys organization. With a relatively unproven running back room, his voice and knowledge could help mentor younger teammates both on and off the field.

NFL insiders see this as a positive factor in his chances of returning to Dallas. As noted in reports, Elliott’s locker room presence and close working relationship with key teammates—especially Dak Prescott—continue to be attributes the Cowboys appreciate. Teams across the league look for reliable veterans during transitional periods, and the Cowboys are no exception. A broader look at veteran fits for NFL teams after the 2025 Draft, including team-building moves, can be found here.

What’s Next for Ezekiel Elliott and the Cowboys?

While no final decision has been announced, it’s clear the Cowboys are weighing their options. Adding Ezekiel Elliott back into the fold makes sense for a team looking to balance experience with fresh talent. Given that the draft did not net a running back and with holes still present in the backfield, a familiar face like Elliott could offer both security and leadership.

In summary: The door remains open for Ezekiel Elliott’s return to the Dallas Cowboys in 2025. His knowledge, mentorship, and ability to perform in key moments may be exactly what Dallas needs as they retool for a competitive campaign. Cowboys fans will be watching closely as the offseason develops and decisions are made about one of the franchise’s most iconic recent players.