3 Most Likely Ezekiel Elliott Destinations in Free Agency
A total of 22 New England Patriots players will become unrestricted free agents once the NFL free agency period opens on Wednesday, March 13. Patriots fans are theorizing about where several free agents will go, including veteran running back Ezekiel Elliott.
After spending his first seven seasons with the Dallas Cowboys, Elliott joined the Patriots on a one-year deal last season. The former Ohio State Buckeye wound up being a solid addition, racking up 642 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 184 carries while adding another 313 yards with two more TDs on 51 receptions without missing a single game.
So, where will Elliott be suiting up come September? Let's look at three of his most likely destinations in free agency.
1. New England Patriots
There's always a chance that Elliott could wind up going... absolutely nowhere.
Elliott has seemingly enjoyed his time in New England thus far. The two-time Pro Bowl rusher told Sports Illustrated in December that he had a "good experience" with the Patriots and that he loves both the city and the team.
Re-signing with the Pats does make a ton of sense since it allows him to play behind Rhamondre Stevenson. Elliott already has 120 games and over 2,000 career carries under his belt. With his 30th birthday less than two years away, he isn't suited to be the No. 1 RB anymore, making the situation in New England ideal for his needs.
The Patriots' RB depth beyond Stevenson also isn't all that great at the moment. The trio of JaMychal Hasty, Kevin Harris, and Ke'Shawn Vaughn just isn't that promising on paper — especially when you consider that they have only combined for 911 rushing yards on 238 carries (3.8 yards per carry) across 93 career games.
Sure, New England could use one of its seven 2024 draft picks to add another RB, but there are more pressing needs to address in April. In other words, don't be surprised if Elliott is brought back for at least one more season.