The drama surrounding Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott continues. Today, a federal appeals court has upheld Elliott’s 6 game suspension issued by the NFL. Ian Rapoport shared the news on Twitter.
5th circuit court of appeals rules against #Cowboys RB Zeke Elliott & for the NFL. Elliott’s suspension is reinstated, per @RMFifthCircuit
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 12, 2017
Elliott was originally suspended in August for his involvement in a domestic violence dispute that occurred in July. Elliott was later granted a preliminary injunction that has allowed him to continue playing.
Here is the statement from Elliott’s legal team.
In the wake of the 5th circuit’s decision to put #Cowboys RB Zeke Elliott’s suspension back on, a statement from his lawyer, Frank Salzano pic.twitter.com/DmXE3C6WBV
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 12, 2017
The NFL also released a statement concerning the court’s decision.
From the @NFL, on #Cowboys RB Zeke Elliott:
# pic.twitter.com/tCpjiSfmF7— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 12, 2017
The Cowboys have a bye week, which will give Elliott time to consider what to do next.
Technically, logistically, #Cowboys RB Ezekiel Elliott’s suspension is immediate, per NFL’s Joe Lockhart. Team does have a bye & some time.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 12, 2017
Per @SportsLawGuy, Zeke Elliott’s people could re-file in NY Federal Court and keep him on the field. So this may not be over just yet.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) October 12, 2017
The Cowboys have limped to a 2-3 record to start the year. The Elliott situation only makes things worse. He is one of the essential parts of the Cowboys offense. His presence keeps defenses on edge, which greatly helps quarterback Dak Prescott.
This situation is far from over. If Elliot fought the suspension once, he will do it again. For now, Darren McFadden and Alfred Morris will compete to see who will take Elliot’s place. The Cowboys next game is against the San Fransisco 49ers on October 22.
