In a surprising turn of events, veteran running back Ezekiel Elliott has signed with the Los Angeles Chargers and will join the team’s practice squad, sources confirmed to ESPN on Monday.

The move comes as the Chargers look to bolster their depth in the backfield amidst a series of injuries that have plagued their running back corps this season.

Elliott, a former first-round pick and two-time NFL rushing champion, was released by the Dallas Cowboys earlier this year after seven seasons with the team. Despite his decorated career, Elliott remained unsigned through the offseason and the early part of the 2024 campaign, leaving many to wonder about his future in the league. Now, the Chargers have given the 28-year-old a chance to prove he still has something left in the tank.

“Zeke is a proven veteran with a track record of success,” a Chargers source told ESPN. “We’re excited to bring him in and see what he can contribute. He’ll start on the practice squad, but the door is open for him to work his way onto the active roster.”

The Chargers’ decision to sign Elliott comes as they deal with injuries to key players in their running back rotation. Austin Ekeler, the team’s star back, has been in and out of the lineup with lingering ankle issues, while backups Joshua Kelley and Isaiah Spiller have struggled to provide consistent production. Elliott’s signing could provide much-needed stability and experience to the position.

During his time with the Cowboys, Elliott established himself as one of the league’s premier running backs, amassing over 8,000 rushing yards and 68 touchdowns. However, his production declined in recent seasons, leading Dallas to part ways with him. Still, Elliott’s physical running style and pass-blocking abilities could make him a valuable asset for the Chargers, particularly in short-yardage and goal-line situations.

Elliott is expected to report to the Chargers’ facility later this week and begin practicing with the team immediately. While it remains unclear how long he will remain on the practice squad, his presence adds intrigue to an already competitive AFC playoff race. With the Chargers fighting to secure a postseason berth, Elliott’s experience and leadership could prove pivotal down the stretch.

For now, all eyes will be on Elliott as he begins this new chapter of his career in Los Angeles. Whether he can carve out a role on the active roster remains to be seen, but the opportunity to contribute is now in his hands.