The Dallas Cowboys made Ezekiel Elliott a healthy scratch for their Week 9 game, marking the first time he was benched outside a season finale. Elliott, a veteran running back in his second stint with the Cowboys, did not accompany the team to Atlanta to face the Falcons.
ESPN’s Todd Archer reported that this move was disciplinary in nature, rather than due to any health issues. NFL Network’s Jane Slater elaborated, noting that Elliott has missed three team meetings this season, with the latest absence on Friday being the tipping point. “Ezekiel Elliott is a healthy scratch today. The first of his career,” Slater tweeted, adding that sources believe Elliott has been “distracted” this season. According to Slater, both Elliott and the Cowboys agreed that benching him was in the best interest of both parties.
Elliott’s performance has been below expectations this season, with only 149 rushing yards on 48 carries, averaging 3.1 yards per carry.
There were earlier indications that he was dissatisfied with his role in the Cowboys’ offense, leading to speculation of mutual frustration between him and the team. With Elliott out, the Cowboys activated Dalvin Cook, who debuted in Week 8 and is expected to share the backfield with Rico Dowdle against the Falcons.
This disciplinary action against Elliott is a surprising development for a player of his experience. Though details of his “distraction” were not specified, consistent tardiness and missing critical meetings suggest some underlying issues impacting his focus.
The benching might signal a shift in the Cowboys’ handling of internal team discipline and performance expectations, especially as they look to manage Elliott’s role more effectively.
Meanwhile, the NFL saw other notable disciplinary actions and struggles, including the Chicago Bears’ decision to discipline cornerback Tyrique Stevenson for a costly Hail Mary mistake, and the New York Giants’ ongoing evaluation of Daniel Jones, whom they plan to retain as long as they remain in contention.
Additionally, the Colts are adjusting their plans with rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson following his demotion.
