After clinching a spot in the NFL playoffs, the Los Angeles Chargers signed running back Ezekiel Elliott after starting two games for the Dallas Cowboys in 2024, per Jordan Schultz on X.

“Breaking: Former #Cowboys RB Ezekiel Elliott is signing with the #Chargers, sources tell @NFLonFOX,” Schultz wrote. “Zeke wanted a chance to compete for a Super Bowl and will add valuable experience to the Bolts' offense.”

Considering the timing of this move, it seemingly paints the picture for running back Gus Edwards, who left Week 17 against the New England Patriots with an injury.

Along with JK Dobbins' injury history since joining the team, Elliott's addition will surely help the Chargers navigate the playoffs.

Chargers sign RB Ezekiel Elliott to roster amid JK Dobbins, Gus Edwards health concerns

Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott (15) runs the ball against the Cleveland Browns during the second quarter at Huntington Bank Field.
Scott Galvin-Imagn Images

After being drafted No. 4 overall by the Cowboys in 2016, Elliott's NFL career has seen great heights, accompanied by low depths.

In his rookie season, Elliott burst on the scene, earning a Pro Bowl vote and an All-Pro nod, on top of being named the Offensive Rookie of the Year. That season, Elliott rushed for over 1,600 yards, finding the endzone 15 times.

However, not every season has been as fruitful. After spending seven seasons with the Cowboys, he was released and signed with the Patriots right after.

With the Patriots, Elliott failed to eclipse 700 yards, scoring just five total touchdowns in five starts with New England.

Then, in 2024, he signed back with the Cowboys, playing a secondary role alongside Rico Dowdle.

Now, as the Chargers look to make their Super Bowl run under Jim Harbaugh in his first season as the head coach, they added Elliott to their running back committee.

Along with Elliott, the Chargers have Dobbins, Edwards, Hassan Haskins, and Kimani Vidal.

However, both Dobbins and Edwards have battled injuries all season, making their reliability less than ideal heading into the playoffs.

And with offensive coordinator Greg Roman‘s run-heavy scheme, the need for a healthy running back was imminent.

Now, as Elliott joins the Chargers before their playoff run, the run game can continue being a pillar for this offense.