Historically it has been difficult for running backs to win an NFL MVP award which is why Brad Gagnon of Bleacher Report named Dallas Cowboys star Ezekiel Elliott as an under-the-radar candidate to win the award.
The last time a running back won the award was in 2012 when Minnesota Vikings back Adrian Peterson took home the award. Peterson rushed for 2097 yards and 12 touchdowns and was the focal point of the offense which is key to bring home the award.
Gagnon points out that the focal point of the Cowboys offense is Elliott which could give him a leg up in winning the award if he has a standout year.
Ezekiel Elliott of the Dallas Cowboys is one of those backs who isn't overshadowed by his quarterback. Dak Prescott has always been somewhat of a second fiddle to Elliott, and the 2016 fourth-round pick hasn't really lived up to the hype he created as a standout rookie.
And Elliott could certainly have an epic statistical season in him. The reigning rushing champion amassed a career-high 2,001 scrimmage yards in his third season, averaging a strong 4.7 yards per attempt despite being a centerpiece in a shorthanded offense that lacked continuity and consistency from a usually dominant offensive line.
Even though Elliott is the focal point, Prescott has been improving each of the last couple of years, and he should be able to take another step forward. To bring home the award I think Prescott is going to need to struggle and Elliott is going to need to have a big year, and the Cowboys will need to make the playoffs.
Follow Us
Subscribe