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Cowboys' Ezekiel Elliott: Takes over starting role in minicamp

With Darren McFadden out due to elbow surgery, Elliott will take all the first-team reps during this week's minicamp, The Ft. Worth Star-Telegram reports. "I would hate to overstate anything at this point," offensive coordinator Scott Linehan said. "But [Elliott] is a full-package running back. There is really not a time I would feel uncomfortable with him being the game right now, which is unusual for a rookie. Over my years, I have had some really good running backs. But there were certain areas of the game where you would say if we do this that is not his cup of tea. But I think Zeke is well rounded. I don't think there is ever a down or distance or situation where he can't carry the load. Obviously, we have other guys who are going to do it, but we will lean heavily on this young kid."

Analysis:

Whatever drama there might have been in the "battle" for the Cowboys' starting RB job was all but eliminated by McFadden's injury. The veteran could get back on the field some time during training camp, but by then Elliott could well have the starting job sewn up. Expect the fourth overall pick to see significant snaps in all situations starting in Week 1.

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