Former Cowboys RB with 8,262 Career Rushing Yards and 68 Rushing Touchdowns Signs with Seattle Seahawks After "Return Home" Attempt Fails

Seattle, Washington - January 20, 2026

Former Dallas Cowboys running back, Ezekiel Elliott, has officially signed with the Seattle Seahawks, joining the team on a promising deal following a challenging period. This move comes after Elliott's attempt to "return home" to Dallas fell through, with negotiations for rejoining the Cowboys not coming to fruition.

Elliott, who made a name for himself as one of the league's premier running backs with the Cowboys, was unable to rejoin Dallas after missing out on contract negotiations. Although talks were held, they did not progress, and Elliott chose to seek a new opportunity elsewhere.

After remaining a free agent into early 2026, Elliott quickly garnered interest from several teams, with the Seahawks being among the top contenders. Joining Seattle marks a crucial step in his career as he takes on a significant role in the team’s offensive system.

A "Return Home" That Didn't Happen

Elliott, known for his powerful running style, vision between the tackles, and elite goal-line production, expressed his disappointment over not being able to return to Dallas, where he had a legendary impact over seven seasons. He shared that not being able to rejoin the Cowboys was a letdown, but he understands that in football, opportunities don't always come in the way you hope.

“I’ve always wanted to come back to Dallas,” Elliott shared in an interview with ESPN. “But when that didn’t happen, I decided to open my eyes and look for a new opportunity. Seattle gave me a chance, and I’m excited for this new challenge.”

Signing with the Seahawks: Stability and Leadership

Joining the Seattle Seahawks is a big move for Elliott. He has signed a short-term contract with the team, where he will bring stability to the running back position, especially as the team faces a challenging season. This is especially important with running back Zach Charbonnet suffering a knee injury and being sidelined for the rest of the season. Elliott will play a key role in helping Seattle maintain their offensive power.

Elliott is not just a reliable player on the field but also brings leadership and energy to the Seahawks' locker room. He was one of the top touchdown scorers in multiple seasons, leading the NFL in rushing touchdowns in 2016 and 2017. With an impressive career totaling 8,262 rushing yards, 68 rushing touchdowns (80 total touchdowns including receiving), he is expected to be an inspiration and an important contributor as the Seahawks continue their playoff journey.

Ezekiel Elliott’s Future

Although he couldn’t return to Dallas, Elliott remains optimistic about the future. “Everything happens for a reason,” he added. “My goal is to help Seattle win and contribute to the team throughout this season.”

For Seattle, Elliott brings not only stability but also an important piece to their long-term strategy. With his experience and leadership, the Seahawks hope to solidify their position in the playoffs and possibly go further in the 2026 season.

A New Chapter for the Former Cowboys RB

By joining Seattle, Ezekiel Elliott officially closes one chapter of his career and opens a new one with a promising team. Although he couldn’t return to Dallas, Elliott proves that his love for football and determination will continue to lead him to success, no matter where he plays.