Free-agent running back Ezekiel Elliott is visiting the New England Patriots on Saturday, according to a report by ESPN.
Despite having a career-low 876 rushing yards in 2022, Elliott, 27, was still a great short-yardage back and pass protector, scoring 12 touchdowns. He was released by the Dallas Cowboys on March 15 because of salary cap restrictions.
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The Patriots, who will begin practicing in full pads early next week with a focus on the running game, may be looking to fill that position. Elliott is making his first visit as a free agent after being released by the Cowboys.
Rhamondre Stevenson, a third-year pro, was the Patriots’ best running back, but there wasn’t much depth behind him going into training camp. James Robinson was let go by the team in June, and his slot on the depth chart was never filled. Following that, veteran Ty Montgomery departed practice on the second day of training camp due to an unspecified left leg/knee issue.
Running backs Pierre Strong and Kevin Harris, both in their second seasons and third-year player J.J. Taylor are now the only players remaining behind Stevenson.
The Patriots hosted free agents Darrell Henderson and Leonard Fournette last week. Free agent Dalvin Cook, who will meet with the New York Jets soon, has also been linked to the Patriots.
Elliott, who turned 28 last week, has only surpassed 1,000 rushing yards once in the past three seasons due to injuries, which have slowed him down the past two seasons. He had 1,881 carries for 8,262 yards and 68 rushing touchdowns when his time with the Cowboys came to an end. In addition, he hauled in 305 receptions for 1,336 yards and 12 scores.
