Should I Drop Ezekiel Elliott? Fantasy Football Outlook for Week 9

Is it time to move on from Ezekiel Elliott? Fantasy managers who have rostered the Dallas Cowboys running back have faced frustration this season.

If you are looking for consistent points each week, consider other options.

Here's a breakdown of whether it is time to drop Elliott -- and some strong alternatives if you do.

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Should I Drop Ezekiel Elliott in Fantasy Football?

Once a fantasy football staple, Elliott is now a risky start week-to-week. While he did score a touchdown in Week 8, his fantasy relevance has been minimal this season.

In shallow leagues, especially those with 8-12 teams, he has become droppable, as he is past his prime and sees little action outside of short-yardage situations.

With just two touchdowns all season and low yardage totals, Elliott's fantasy value is dwindling, making him hard to trust even in deeper leagues.

Zeke TD history…

This TD run was Ezekiel Elliott’s 70th rushing touchdown as a #dallascowboys player — the third-most in #Cowboys franchise history. Elliott is now only 2 TDs behind Tony Dorsett for second on the list.

Emmitt Smith has the most with 153. pic.twitter.com/00gn2PK9Ns

— Pat Doney (@PatDoneyNBC5) October 28, 2024

Although he found the end zone against the San Francisco 49ers, Elliott's production was boosted due to Rico Dowdle's absence (illness). Dowdle, expected to return soon, will likely cut further into the veteran's limited touches.

Moreover, Elliott has only managed double-digit PPR points twice this season: 12.90 in Week 1 and 10.80 in Week 8. He has little upside if he does not score.

As the Cowboys prepare to face the Atlanta Falcons in Week 9, Elliott remains a touchdown-or-bust option, even more so with Dowdle back. With only two scores this season, the 29-year-old has been more of a bust.

If you are in a position where you can afford to part ways with Elliott, let go and let another manager try their luck with him, if they dare. He is not worth the roster spot in most leagues when more dynamic options are available.

Who Should I Pick Up in Week 9 Fantasy Football?

If you are dropping Elliott, consider adding Tyrone Tracy Jr., who could be a valuable stash if you can afford to hold him. Tracy is currently rostered in 64% of Sleeper leagues, so there is a chance he may still be available. While he is in concussion protocol and might not return immediately, his upside makes him worth the wait if you have the roster space.

Bucky Irving is another solid option, rostered in 76% of Sleeper leagues. He is seeing increased usage and could step up as a dependable option if you need a consistent backfield player.

Bucky Irving plays like he’s at x2.5 speed compared to everyone else ⚡️💨

pic.twitter.com/ZgCqdXQ5Za

— Matt FF Dynasty 🏈 (@MattFFDynasty) October 27, 2024

For those using Elliott in a flex role, consider wide receiver options like Cedric Tillman, who is rostered in only 24% of Sleeper leagues, or Calvin Ridley, who is found on rosters in 69% of leagues. Both offer more reliable target shares than Elliott has seen this season.

Another deeper stash is Jalen Coker, who has 0% rostership on Sleeper. While less proven, he has shown potential in his limited opportunities. Adding any of these players can provide more production than Elliott, who has struggled to make a fantasy impact.

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