The New England Patriots continue to sniff around the free-agent running back market.
Former Cowboys RB Ezekiel Elliott visited with Pats on Saturday, NFL Network Insider Mike Garafolo reported on Saturday, per sources informed of the situation. Garafolo and NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport later reported that Elliott left New England without a contract, but the two sides plan to remain in contact.
Jordan Schultz first reported the news of Elliott's visit.
The Patriots recently hosted Leonard Fournette for a visit and have been linked to Dalvin Cook. New England is seeking a veteran to pair with Rhamondre Stevenson after the offseason addition of James Robinson didn’t work out.
Elliott has a bigger name than game at this stage of his career, but he can still be productive in the right situation. Zeke saw career lows with 867 yards on 231 attempts in 2022. His 3.8 yards per carry average was the first time he's been below the 4.0 mark in seven seasons. However, the 28-year-old can still get it done in the red zone, netting 12 touchdowns last season, an area the Pats can use some help.
After being cut by the Cowboys this offseason, Elliott's days as a featured, workhorse back are likely in the rearview. But the three-time Pro Bowler can still provide fruitful reps in a committee. One question is what sort of contract Elliott is looking for at this stage of his career.
