Cowboys release Elliott at his request

The Dallas Cowboys cut running back Ezekiel Elliott after he asked to be released, the team announced Tuesday.

Elliott now heads to waivers, where he can be claimed by another team. He will become an unrestricted free agent if he isn't claimed during the waiver process.

Dallas parted ways with Elliott to give the veteran tailback an opportunity to join a playoff contender.

"Out of respect and appreciation for Zeke and wanting to provide him with an opportunity to pursue any potential playoff participation possible, we are releasing him from the Cowboys' roster today," owner and general manager Jerry Jones said in a statement. "As I have said many times previously, Zeke's impact as one of the greatest to ever play with the star on their helmet will never change and is etched in our record books and history forever."

The three-time Pro Bowl halfback returned to the Cowboys for his second stint with the club this offseason. Dallas needed to bolster its depth at running back after starter Tony Pollard left the team in free agency, opening the door for Elliott to come back after spending 2023 with the New England Patriots.

Elliott's production didn't meet the franchise's expectations in 2024, however. The 29-year-old rushed for 226 yards and three touchdowns while averaging a career-low 3.1 yards per carry.

Rico Dowdle established himself as the lead back as the regular season progressed. Elliott's role diminished throughout the year, and he recorded 10 or more carries in just two games.

Elliott spent the first seven seasons of his career in Dallas after being drafted fourth overall in 2016. The Ohio State product tallied four 1,000-yard seasons, including a league-leading 1,631-yard rookie campaign that earned him first-team All-Pro honors.