Cowboys HC Mike McCarthy open to Ezekiel Elliott’s return despite release regret saying “you always keep the door open”

In a recent statement to NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero, Dallas Cowboys coach Mike McCarthy revealed that he has some regret about parting ways with Ezekiel Elliott. However, the good news is that the team is actively searching for a room for the talented running back. This optimistic outlook shows that the Cowboys are relentlessly finding a solution that works for both Elliott and the team. With such a determined and positive approach, there is every reason to believe that the Cowboys will soon find the perfect fit for Elliott, allowing him to continue showcasing his impressive skills on the field for the Cowboys.

Ezekiel Elliott was selected by the Dallas Cowboys with the fourth overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, making him the first running back chosen that year. He played for the Cowboys for seven seasons, making the Pro Bowl three times and being named to the All-Pro team twice and also set league records for rushing yards n 2016 and 2018.

The RB suffered a partial PCL tear against the Carolina Panthers in Week 4 of the 2021 season, and it was discovered while he was playing against the San Francisco 49ers in the Wild Card Round that year. Over the course of 15 regular-season games in 2022, the 27-year-old carried the ball 231 times for 876 yards and 12 touchdowns, averaging 3.8 yards per attempt. Zeke’s daily output continues to decline, and the Cowboys released him due to salary cap issues and his lowered value added.

Will Ezekiel Elliott return to Dallas Cowboys?

Regarding Ezekiel’s talent, Dallas‘ coach said that it was difficult for them to decide to go forward with him because he is a great player who contributed a lot of his knowledge to the team and helped them succeed.

“You know, no one felt good about that. “I mean, Zeke has such a bright light to him too. He’s a great teammate. There’s so much love for him in the building, but you get to these spots.”

The HC lamented that they had done everything possible to keep the RB and that he had numerous conversations with Dak Prescott about it.

“You know, the longer you’re in this league, these are tough decisions. Very difficult decisions. Very difficult for Dak (Prescott). You know, I’ve had a number of conversations with Dak, but it’s not easy.”

Given the head coach’s response to Pelissero’s question about whether they were still interested in signing Ezekiel Elliott, it seems clear that they regret letting him go.

Tom asked if the door was still open and Mike replied, “Yeah, definitely. I think you always keep the door open. Absolutely.”