Draft Selection: Elliott was selected by the Dallas Cowboys with the fourth overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, making him the highest-drafted running back since Trent Richardson in 2012. Expectations were high for Elliott to make an immediate impact in Dallas' offense.
League-Leading Rushing Yards: In his rookie campaign, Elliott led the NFL in rushing yards with 1,631 yards on 322 carries, averaging an impressive 5.1 yards per attempt. His electrifying runs and ability to consistently gain yards on the ground made him a focal point of the Cowboys' offense.
Offensive Rookie of the Year: Elliott's outstanding performance earned him numerous accolades, including the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year award. He became the first Cowboys player to win the award since running back Emmitt Smith in 1990.
Pro Bowl Selection: Elliott's dominance in his rookie season earned him a selection to the Pro Bowl, where he showcased his talents alongside the NFL's top players. His Pro Bowl nod was a testament to his impact and influence on the league as a first-year player.
Contributions to Team Success: Elliott's exceptional rookie season played a pivotal role in the Cowboys' success, as they finished the regular season with a 13-3 record, clinching the top seed in the NFC playoffs. His ability to control the ground game and move the chains helped Dallas become one of the league's top offenses.
Playoff Performance: In the postseason, Elliott continued to shine, rushing for 125 yards and a touchdown in his playoff debut against the Green Bay Packers in the divisional round. Although the Cowboys fell short in the playoffs, Elliott's performance underscored his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations.
Impact on Offensive Balance: Elliott's presence in the Cowboys' backfield provided balance to the offense and alleviated pressure on quarterback Dak Prescott, who was also a rookie in 2016. His ability to grind out tough yards and sustain drives helped Prescott settle into his role as the team's starting quarterback.
. Establishing Himself as a Star: Through his rookie season, Ezekiel Elliott firmly established himself as one of the NFL's brightest young stars and a cornerstone of the Cowboys' future. His combination of talent, athleticism, and work ethic set the stage for what would be a promising career in Dallas and solidified his status as one of the league's premier running backs.