The Dallas Cowboys have been assessing their running back needs, and the return of Ezekiel Elliott appears increasingly likely.

Although owner and general manager Jerry Jones did not confirm any agreement with Elliott, he has expressed interest in the player. When asked about the team’s decision not to draft a running back in the first three rounds, Jones mentioned ongoing possibilities in the draft while also acknowledging the Cowboys’ interest in Elliott’s future.

Recently, the Cowboys met with Elliott and his agent, Rocky Arceneaux, fueling speculation about a potential reunion. Jones still holds faith in Elliott’s ability to perform at a starting level, despite a dip in his statistics last season, where he recorded a career-low of 642 rushing yards.

In the final five games of the previous season, Elliott’s performance was less than stellar, failing to surpass 68 rushing yards in any game and averaging over 3.1 yards per carry only once.

Despite losing Tony Pollard in free agency, the Cowboys have made moves to bolster their running back depth by re-signing Rico Dowdle, adding veteran Royce Freeman, and having Deuce Vaughn, Malik Davis, and Snoop Conner on the roster.

During his tenure with the Cowboys from 2016 to 2022, Elliott amassed 8,262 rushing yards, ranking third in team history behind legends Emmitt Smith and Tony Dorsett. Although Elliott hasn’t reached the 1,000-yard mark since 2021, his contributions earned him one All-Pro selection and three Pro Bowl appearances.

Even if the Cowboys decide to add another running back in the draft, Elliott, who turns 29 in July, remains a significant part of the team’s plans.

In Jones’s words, “Zeke’s good enough to be in the running back room, and he’s good enough to play for the Cowboys.”