Ezekiel Elliott Trade? New England Patriots Receiving Calls at Deadline

The New England Patriots are positioned to be sellers for Tuesday's trade deadline. Will running back Ezekiel Elliott find a new home?

If there’s any solace for New England Patriots fans in a decidedly lost season, it’s that they should be bringing in a top-10 talent in April’s NFL Draft. They’ll have the chance to add to their draft capital before Tuesday’s NFL trade deadline, which is set for 4 p.m. ET.

One name that could be on the move is veteran running back Ezekiel Elliott.

Brought in on a one-year deal, Elliott won’t break the bank for inquiring teams, nor will he hurt next year’s cap situation. In the meantime, he could be a worthwhile addition to some team’s stable of backs.

“Sources: RB-needy teams have reached out to the Patriots about the availability of RB Ezekiel Elliott,” tweeted Jordan Schultz.

Elliott takes a handoff from quarterback Mac Jones against the Dallas Cowboys / Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY

Elliott has 67 rush attempts on the year for 260 yards and two scores. He hasn’t been particularly efficient, but given how many of his carries are in short-yardage situations, his 3.9 yards per attempt shouldn’t concern buyers. It’s not like anyone is interested in Elliott for his speed, which yards per attempt measures well.

The Patriots (2-6) backup is a fundamentally sound runner who can find creases at the goal line and hold his own on passing downs. Aside from earning a reputation for strong pass-protection skills, he has also hauled in 13 passes for 59 receiving yards in his short stint with New England.

Perhaps the place that makes the most sense is his former stomping grounds. The Dallas Cowboys have seen running back Tony Pollard’s explosiveness and efficiency plummet in a workhorse role, and they lack the depth to truly cut into his carries. Elliott could fill in as a complementary back to soak up red zone looks and the occasional early-down work to keep Pollard’s legs fresh, even while maintaining a majority of the snaps. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has made it clear he does not expect a move to be made, though.

Other teams in the running back market that could benefit from Elliott’s skill set include the Jacksonville Jaguars, Miami Dolphins, and Philadelphia Eagles. In all likelihood, Elliott will not be on the next New England playoff team, making him a perfect trade candidate for the Patriots braintrust to entertain.