Ezekiel "Zeke" Elliott is a name that's been making waves in the NFL landscape yet again, and it's no surprise that he's trending with over 1000+ search traffic. The veteran running back, known for his standout performances with the Dallas Cowboys, has recently reunited with his former team, sparking excitement among fans, fantasy football enthusiasts, and sports analysts alike. In this article, we’ll break down why Elliott is trending, explore his emotional return to the Cowboys, and take a look at his impact on both real and fantasy football.
The Buzz Around Ezekiel Elliott
Elliott has been a prominent figure in the NFL since he was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in 2016. After spending the bulk of his career with the team and becoming one of the top running backs in the league, Elliott parted ways with the Cowboys at the end of the 2022 season. However, in a twist that delighted fans, Elliott has reunited with the Cowboys for the 2023 season, and his performance is already turning heads.
The running back’s return has been marked by a series of emotional and impactful moments, one of which was his first touchdown after rejoining the Cowboys. In a recent game against the Cleveland Browns, Elliott found the endzone and was visibly moved by the moment, describing a sense of rejuvenation after a challenging period in his career.
Emotional First Touchdown After Reunion
Elliott’s reunion with the Cowboys came with high expectations, and he did not disappoint. In the first game of the 2023 season against the Cleveland Browns, the Ohio State product scored his first touchdown since rejoining the team. According to an article from Dallas Cowboys, Elliott was emotional after the touchdown, feeling a sense of revitalization and excitement. His solid performance helped the Cowboys secure a victory over the Browns, and it was clear that the running back was eager to prove himself once again.
Elliott’s return to the Cowboys was not just a feel-good story; it was also a crucial moment for the team. His ability to find the endzone and contribute to the offense has reminded fans of his earlier years in the NFL when he was a critical component of Dallas' offensive success. The reunion has been described as a rejuvenating experience for Elliott, who expressed his joy and relief at being back on the field with the Cowboys, where he feels at home.
Performance in the Season Opener
In addition to the emotional touchdown, Elliott’s overall performance in the Cowboys' season opener has been the subject of much discussion. A Yahoo Sports article provided an in-depth look at how Elliott fared in his first game back. While his numbers were solid, they weren’t necessarily record-breaking — but that wasn't the point. His presence on the field added a layer of depth and experience to the Cowboys' offense, something that was crucial for a team looking to make an impact early in the season.
His contributions went beyond just rushing yards. Elliott’s leadership and game sense were on full display, as he worked seamlessly with the Cowboys' offensive line and quarterback. His familiarity with the team’s playbook and style of play made his transition back into the lineup relatively smooth. The Cowboys are hoping that Elliott can continue to build on this performance as the season progresses, further boosting their chances in a competitive NFC.
Fantasy Football Implications: Elliott vs. Moss in Week 2
Ezekiel Elliott’s return to the Cowboys has also generated significant interest in the fantasy football world. As Week 2 of the NFL season approaches, many fantasy owners are debating whether they should start Elliott or another emerging running back, Zack Moss. A Sportskeeda article breaks down the pros and cons of starting Elliott in fantasy lineups, comparing him to Moss, who has also had a strong start to the season.
For fantasy football managers, Elliott’s value lies in his ability to score touchdowns and gain consistent yardage. While he may share some of the workload with other Dallas running backs, his role in goal-line situations and short-yardage scenarios makes him a tempting option for anyone looking to rack up points. On the other hand, Moss has emerged as a solid RB2 or flex option with a similar ability to gain yards and find the endzone.
Ultimately, the decision between starting Elliott or Moss may come down to matchup specifics and team needs, but Elliott’s proven track record and emotional return to form suggest that he remains a strong fantasy option, particularly in high-stakes games where the Cowboys rely on his experience and skills.
Conclusion
Ezekiel Elliott’s trending status is well-earned, as his return to the Dallas Cowboys has reignited interest in both real-world NFL dynamics and fantasy football leagues. His emotional touchdown in the season opener against the Cleveland Browns and his solid overall performance have reminded fans why he was once one of the most dominant running backs in the league. As the season progresses, both Cowboys fans and fantasy football managers will be watching closely to see how Elliott continues to perform and whether he can sustain this early momentum.
With the NFL season now in full swing, Elliott’s story is one of redemption, rejuvenation, and promise. Whether you’re a fan of the Cowboys, a fantasy football manager, or just a follower of the NFL, Ezekiel Elliott is a player to keep your eye on in 2023.