Patriots to sign running back Ezekiel Elliott
Patriots sign pro-bowler to backfield, add much needed depth
The New England Patriots are signing running back Ezekiel Elliott, per Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero.
Elliott visited New England earlier in training camp but left without a deal. Now he has a deal that is reportedly for one-year, worth up to $6 million.
The compensation breakdown per Adam Schefter of ESPN is: $3 million base salary, a $1 million signing bonus, and the rest is incentives.
Elliott is entering his eighth year in the NFL, all of which have been with the Cowboys. He just turned 28-years-old and has made three Pro Bowls.
Last season he ended up splitting the workload with Tony Pollard. “Zeke” recorded a career low in attempts and yards (231 attempts for 876 yards).
The former Ohio State Buckeye had remained unsigned throughout free agency despite his strong resume. He has rushed for over 1000 yards four times and was averaging over four yards per carry before last season. He also has the ability to be pass catching option with a career 305 receptions, with his season high being 77 in 2018.
The need for another running back was clear in New England. Behind Rhomandre Stevenson, the Patriots have second year backs Pierre Strong Jr. and Kevin Harris. Both played in Week 1 of the preseason, combining for 14 rushing attempts for only 31 yards. Strong also caught three passes for 12 yards.
Perhaps the biggest contribution Elliott will have is inside the 5-yard line. Per Ian Hartitz of Fantasy Life, Elliott was fifth in the league last season in TD% on carries inside the five. Stevenson struggled a bit as he ranked number 23 on the list.
Stevenson and Elliott provides one of the strongest running back duos in the AFC. Zeke has already confirmed the signing with a post just a short time ago.
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