Patriots To Sign Former All-Pro Running Back Ezekiel Elliott: Reports

FOXBOROUGH, MA — The Patriots have come to terms with former Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott on a one-year deal, the NFL Network first reported. Elliott's deal includes a $3 million base salary and $1 million signing bonus, with a total value of up to $6 million with incentives.

"One Five, all the way live!" Elliott tweeted at the Patriots on Monday afternoon. Elliott is referencing plans to wear No. 15, the number he wore while playing in college for Ohio State University, ESPN reported.

The Cowboys failed to reach a long-term deal with Elliott, and he was released from the team earlier this summer. The Patriots were the first team he visited since his release. Elliott dined with Patriots quarterback Mac Jones and others, according to ESPN.

In signing Elliott, the Patriots address their lack of depth at running back. Elliott is projected to serve as a complement to lead back Rhamondre Stevenson, leaving other backs like Ty Montgomery and Kevin Harris to fight for a roster spot, according to the NFL Network.

Elliott spent his first seven years in the league with the Cowboys, where he rushed for a total of 8,262 yards. He was selected to appear in the Pro Bowl in 2016, 2018, and 2019.

Last year, Elliott posted a career-low 876 rushing yards on 3.9 yards per attempt, though he did rack up plenty of goal-line work, scoring 12 touchdowns.

The Cowboys host the Patriots in week 4 on Oct. 1.