Ezekiel Elliott 'all for' heavy workload in 2018
Running back Ezekiel Elliott is ready to carry the Dallas Cowboys' offense in 2018 as he comes off a suspension-shortened 2017 campaign.
"I'm all for it, you know what I mean?" Elliott said as the Cowboys wrapped up minicamp Thursday, according to Drew Davison of the Star-Telegram. "A lot is asked from the running back for the Dallas Cowboys, a lot has been asked for me the past two seasons, and I think I've had some great strides this offseason getting ready to carry that workload this season."
Elliott led the NFL in rushing attempts (322) and yards (1,631) and finished third in rushing touchdowns (15) in his 2016 rookie season. He was on pace to shatter that per-game workload in 2017 before serving a six-game suspension for violating the league's personal conduct policy that appeals and legal challenges ultimately delayed until Weeks 10-15. The suspension followed an NFL investigation into his former girlfriend's reports he'd committed domestic violence against her in 2016.
Running backs coach Gary Brown has told Elliott to be prepared for a lot of work as he enters his third season.
"Come in and be in the best shape of your life. Be ready to get a lot of carries early," Brown said, recounting what he'd told the running back. "It is going to be a situation where defenses are going to try to stop us. They are going to try their best, but they are not going to be able to."
- With h/t to NFL.com