Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott has long established himself as one of the league's premier rushers; however, it seems he is poised to put his versatile skill set on full display in the 2020 NFL season.
Team owner Jerry Jones has already let the cat out of the bag regarding their plans for Elliott and Tony Pollard as go-to receivers out of the backfield. According to Michael Gehlken of the Dallas Morning News, the two-time rushing champ provided further indication of his increased role in the passing game:
Cowboys RB Ezekiel Elliott was asked if he expects to be more involved in the passing game in 2020. "I think I will be." Didn't elaborate. He winked.
— Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) September 9, 2020
The not-to-subtle hints coming out of Dallas only solidify the notion that the Cowboys appear to be all in on a downfield, aerial approach for the offense. After all, they made a splash by forming a talented trio in the receiving corps with the addition of CeeDee Lamb in the 2020 NFL Draft. Then onus will now fall on franchise quarterback Dak Prescott and new head coach Mike McCarthy to make it come to fruition.
Fortunately, Elliott has proven to be more than capable of taking advantage of any touches that come his way as the focal point in the offense. Aside from serving as a bonafide workhorse in the backfield, his prowess as a pass-catcher is also well-documented with 131 receptions for 987 yards and five touchdowns over the last two seasons.
Elliott already racked up 166 targets during that span as well so it remains to be seen just how much more involved the Cowboys plan on getting him. His recent comments indicate that the team has a solid plan in mind.
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