Patriots’ Ezekiel Elliott to Get ‘Starter Reps’ vs. Cowboys, per Insider

Patriots running back Ezekiel Elliott is poised to have a significantly increased role in the offense on Sunday when he faces his former Cowboys teammates. Elliott, who has came off the bench in all three games this season, will get starter reps against Dallas in Week 4, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. 

“My understanding is his role is expected to increase today against his former team,” Rapoport said. “They know, in this building, how much this game means to him. I’m told he’s expected to get starter reps at running back. Will he actually start? That depends on the play.” 

The 28-year-old played his entire career for the Cowboys until they released him in March after slowing losing the starter role to Tony Pollard. Elliott led the NFL in rushing yards on two separate occasions for Dallas and was named to the Pro Bowl three times during his seven seasons there. He signed a one-year deal with the Patriots as a result. 

Elliott had his best game of the young season in his team’s Week 3 win over the Jets when he rushed for 80 yards on 16 carries and will look to follow-up with a strong performance in the revenge game. Rhamondre Stevenson has been the starter for New England in the backfield so far this year. 

Kick off is scheduled for 4:25 ET on Fox.