Will The Buccaneers Sign Ezekiel Elliott? Fantasy Football Outlook

Veteran running back Ezekiel Elliott was the fourth overall pick in the 2016 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys. The former Ohio State star had a productive rookie season, totaling 322 rushing attempts for 1,631 yards and 15 touchdowns.

Unfortunately, Elliott served a six-game suspension the following year. Yet, the superstar running back had 242 rushing attempts for 983 yards and seven touchdowns in 10 games. He led the NFL in rushing yards per game for the second consecutive season.

Elliott had another excellent season in 2018, totaling 304 rushing attempts for 1,434 yards and six touchdowns. He also had 77 receptions on 95 targets for 567 yards and three touchdowns, all career highs. Furthermore, the former Buckeye led the NFL in rushing yards per game for the third year in a row.

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Will The Buccaneers Sign Ezekiel Elliott?

Sadly, the superstar running back saw his production decline over the next several years. Last season Elliott had the worst year of his career, totaling 231 rushing attempts for 867 rushing yards, both career lows. Furthermore, he averaged only 3.8 yards per rushing attempt and 58.4 yards per game, setting career lows in both categories.

Between the decline in production and his contract, it’s no surprise the Cowboys released the veteran running back after seven years with the franchise. However, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are reportedly interested in the former superstar running back.

The Buccaneers could use the veteran running back after they released Leonard Fournette earlier this offseason. While the team has high expectations for second-year man Rachaad White, Tampa Bay wants to add a veteran after not drafting a running back during the 2023 NFL Draft.

What Other Running Backs Could The Buccaneers Sign?

Yet, Elliott isn’t the only option for the Buccaneers. The team could explore bringing back Fournette on a team-friendly deal or sign Melvin Gordon. However, the best option might be Kareem Hunt.

While he is no longer a superstar running back, Hunt still has plenty left in the tank to off an NFL team. Last year the veteran running back had 123 rushing attempts for 468 yards and three touchdowns. He also had 35 receptions on 44 targets for 210 yards and a score. Hunt would give the Buccaneers a veteran to lean on while not taking over the starting role.

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