Cowboys expect reinvigorated Elliott to shine in 2018

Dallas Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones is expecting a huge campaign from third-year running back Ezekiel Elliott, whose quieter offseason has allowed him to regroup from a turbulent 2017.

"Yes, I think that I give him a big arrow (up) as to what his performance might be without the overhang of the issue he faced last year," Jones told ESPN's Todd Archer on Wednesday.

Though he was still productive as a sophomore, Elliott lacked the pep in his step he showcased as a rookie when he rushed for 1,631 yards and 10 touchdowns. The beginning of his second season was hindered by an on-again, off-again six-game suspension for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy. The ban stemmed from a months-long investigation into a domestic violence case.

This offseason has been a calmer one for Elliott, who hasn't been embroiled in legal issues and controversies.

" ... From the standpoint of mentally, there is no question - I'm 100 percent sure - to not have that on your mind, to not have the ambiguity of not knowing timelines, those kinds of things, there's no doubt in my mind it will make a significant difference in how he can focus, how he can focus not only on the next practice but the next game and the entire season," said Jones.

Elliott racked up 983 yards and seven touchdowns in 10 games last season, but his mark of his 4.1 yards per carry was a full yard lower than what he produced two seasons ago.

Dallas figures to lean heavily on Elliott this upcoming season, as a couple of longtime playmakers in the passing game - receiver Dez Bryant and tight end Jason Witten - are no longer on the roster.