While the NFL has yet to make an official ruling on the status of running back Ezekiel Elliott, many reputable names in NFL circles believe Elliott is facing a sizable suspension for his domestic violence allegations.
NFL investigating Ezekiel Elliott for domestic violence. DV violations are 6 games; can be increased or decreased depending on circumstances
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 11, 2017
Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, domestic violence violations yield a six-game suspension that can be increased or decreased depending on circumstantial evidence. Schefter also notes that Elliott and his domestic violence allegations have been the subject of a NFL probe, a probe that has been active for about a year now. NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero tweeted that the suspension is also subject to appeal and legal challenges.
Any discipline for Ezekiel Elliott is subject to appeal and, as we know well by now, legal challenges. So buckle up. This could take awhile.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) August 11, 2017
Even within the past few months, Elliott has faced growing scrutiny for his conduct off-the-field. Last March during a St. Patrick’s Day parade, Elliott was filmed pulling down a woman’s shirt. This past July, Elliott allegedly got involved in a scuffle at a Dallas bar and ended up sending a man to the hospital. Elliott did not face arrest or charges stemming from this incident.
If Elliott receives a suspension and if the appeal proves unsuccessful, the Cowboys will have a noticeable void in the backfield, no matter how long the suspension. Elliott won NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year last year by a landslide, proving how valuable he was for the high-powered Cowboys offense.
Fortunately for the Cowboys, the depth at running back has proved reliable both in previous years and just last week against the Arizona Cardinals during the NFL Hall of Fame game. Veteran Alfred Morris averaged 6.0 yards a carry, amassing 42 yards on the ground. Meanwhile, running back Rod Smith averaged a healthy 3.6 yards a carry and tallied 64 yards. Also, don’t forget that the Cowboys still have Darren McFadden and Ronnie Hillman in the backfield, two tested running backs who have shined at certain points in their career.
While Elliott’s consistency and flashy athleticism would be missed on field if he was indeed suspended, the Cowboys still possess the formula for winning with four trustworthy running backs currently on the roster ready to fill the void left by Elliott.
A decision on Elliott can be expected as early as today from the NFL.
Photo: Getty Images
