“Jerry Jones Dismisses Ezekiel Elliott’s Criticism, Defends Reduced Role as a Strategic Move”
During a Friday interview on 105.3 The Fan, Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones responded to Ezekiel Elliott’s comments about his reduced role, calling the situation overblown.
Jones dismissed the claim that Elliott was “dumbfounded,” saying, “That’s an exaggeration. ‘Dumbfounded’ is a mischaracterization and a poor way to describe how he feels. We’re actually saving him, and that’s how it should be.” He acknowledged Rico Dowdle’s emergence as a key player but noted that Dowdle’s history of injuries makes relying solely on him risky. Jones emphasized the importance of protecting Elliott for the future.
It remains unclear what exactly the Cowboys are “saving” Elliott for, but the team is heading into their upcoming game as 3.5-point underdogs against the Detroit Lions.
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones has responded to Ezekiel Elliott after the running back expressed frustration about his limited role this season. Elliott told Cowboys reporter Clarence Hill Jr. of DLLS Sports that he’s “dumbfounded” by his lack of opportunities, especially in the red zone, and admitted to raising his concerns with the coaching staff.
Elliott acknowledged the change in his role but emphasized his focus on being a good teammate and contributing to the team’s success. “It’s definitely different, but I’m just keeping my head down and staying focused on helping the team win,” Elliott said.
So far in the season, Elliott ranks 55th in carries with 30 and 70th in rushing yards with 98. He has scored just one touchdown. Drafted fourth overall by the Cowboys in 2016, Elliott was a two-time rushing champion, three-time Pro Bowler, and one-time All-Pro during his time with the team. After signing with the New England Patriots in 2023, Elliott returned to the Cowboys in 2024 when Tony Pollard was released.
Despite his expectations for more touches, Elliott’s snap count has decreased significantly since Week 1, though it saw a slight increase in Week 5. Meanwhile, running back Rico Dowdle has emerged as a key player in the Cowboys’ backfield rotation.