Chargers Add Veteran Depth with Ezekiel Elliott Signing Amid Playoff Push

Chargers Look to Bolster Backfield with Ezekiel Elliott Signing

In a move that has the NFL world buzzing, the Los Angeles Chargers are planning to sign running back Ezekiel Elliott to their practice squad, pending a physical. This news, confirmed by a source to ESPN, was first reported by Fox Sports on Monday. The decision comes at a crucial time as the Chargers prepare for their wild-card matchup against the Houston Texans this Saturday.

The Dallas Cowboys recently waived Elliott earlier this month. Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones explained that the move was “out of respect and appreciation for Zeke and wanting to provide him with an opportunity to pursue any potential playoff participation possible.” Elliott, who was drafted by the Cowboys in 2016, leaves as the team’s No. 3 all-time leading rusher, a testament to his impact and legacy in Dallas.

At 29 years old, Elliott’s performance this season included 74 carries for 226 yards and three touchdowns over 14 games with the Cowboys. However, his journey this season wasn’t without its hiccups. Notably, Elliott was made inactive for the Cowboys’ November 3rd game against the Atlanta Falcons due to missing meetings, a decision that raised eyebrows and perhaps foreshadowed his eventual release.

For the Chargers, the timing of this signing is particularly strategic. Their running back Gus Edwards has been sidelined since the team’s Week 16 victory over the Denver Broncos due to an ankle injury. Edwards, who has been on injured reserve earlier this season for a different ankle issue, aggravated his injury during practice. The addition of Elliott is likely a precautionary measure, providing insurance should Edwards be unable to suit up for the playoff game.

While Elliott’s arrival in Los Angeles is significant, it probably won’t alter the role of the Chargers’ lead running back, J.K. Dobbins. Dobbins has been a standout performer this season, amassing a career-high 1,058 yards from scrimmage. However, the presence of Elliott could impact the workload of other running backs on the roster, such as Kimani Vidal and Hassan Haskins, who might see their opportunities reduced.

• Key Points to Consider:
  • Elliott’s signing is pending a physical, with the official move expected on Tuesday.
  • The Cowboys waived Elliott to allow him potential playoff participation elsewhere.
  • Gus Edwards’ injury status is a significant factor in the Chargers’ decision.
  • J.K. Dobbins remains the lead back, with Elliott providing depth.

As the Chargers gear up for their playoff run, the addition of a seasoned veteran like Elliott could prove invaluable. His experience and ability to perform in high-pressure situations might just be the edge the Chargers need as they aim to make a deep postseason push. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Elliott integrates into the team and what impact he might have in the coming games.