Cowboys Coach Mike McCarthy Reacts to Ezekiel Elliott Signing

Mike McCarthy expresses excitement for former Dallas Cowboys star Ezekiel Elliott after the running back signs in New England.

Former Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott found himself a new home on Monday, signing with the New England Patriots.

The deal, a one-year contract worth up to $6 million, gives Elliott a chance to compete in perhaps the league’s toughest division, the AFC East. Trading in the star on his helmet for stripes on his shoulder pads also means shedding the workhorse label for a more complementary role.

Zeke ran for 876 yards on 231 attempts last season. He saw his efficiency dip to a career-low 3.8 yards per attempt as teammate Tony Pollard became the crown jewel of the backfield. Now, he will relieve another young back, Rhamondre Stevenson, presumably on passing downs and goal line snaps, where his highly-touted blocking and between-the-tackles rushing skills can put him in position to succeed.

Quarterback and close friend Dak Prescott shared his excitement on Instagram, but he was not alone in his praise.

“He’ll do great up there,” said head coach Mike McCarthy on Tuesday.” Play-style alone, I think he’s a really good fit for how they like to play.”

Sporting his collegiate jersey number, 15, and haircut, Elliott will look to turn back the clock and show he still has some gas left in the tank. With a lesser workload on the horizon, fresher legs may help prove himself - and McCarthy -right.

He’ll get a chance to showcase that progress (and stick it to his old team) when his Patriots come to Dallas on Oct. 1.

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