Patriots Ex RB Praises Ezekiel Elliott Signing: 'Top 7 Back!'
The New England Patriots addressed their need for a No. 2 running back in a big way, signing former Dallas Cowboys star Ezekiel Elliott to a one-year deal on Aug. 14.
After losing Damien Harris earlier in the offseason, the Patriots replaced him with a former top-five pick that has led the league in rushing twice. Elliott had a blazing start to his career, even if his production has waned a bit in recent years. Last season with the Cowboys, Elliott set career-lows with 876 yards and 3.8 yards per carry, but was still a solid piece of the offense and had 12 rushing scores.
Despite that, a former New England running back believes Elliott is still among the league's best. Sony Michel, who just retired last month, praised his former team for signing Elliott, whom he feels will be a crucial part of the offense.
“I have this argument all the time,” Michel said on Fanduel TV's "Up and Adams." “He’s still probably a top-seven running back. You know, a lot of people give him a lot of flak for what happened the past couple years. ‘He’s not the same Zeke.’ This dude’s going still for a 1,000 yards and he’s still not the same? He probably dropped off 200 yards and people were saying he fell off or he’s not the same.
“He’s the same Zeke. Now, he’s probably hungrier than ever on a different team, fresh start.”
Elliott will have to work for his touches in New England, as he's the clear No. 2 option behind Rhamondre Stevenson. However, it's not too different from his situation in Dallas, as he eventually fell behind Tony Pollard on the depth chart. Perhaps joining a new team, as well as having less of a load on his shoulders, could help him rebound to form.
Michel's claims are certainly bold, but if they're accurate, the addition of Elliott should do wonders for the offense.
Follow Jonathan Alfano on Twitter
Follow Patriots Country on Twitter and Facebook
Want the latest in breaking news and insider information on the Patriots? Click Here
More Patriots coverage from Sports Illustrated here.
