Fansided

Ezekiel Elliott can’t wear midriff jersey in NFL

By Charles Rahrig V

May 6, 2016; Irving, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys number one draft pick Ezekiel Elliott (21) runs drills during rookie minicamp at Dallas Cowboys headquarters at Valley Ranch. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
May 6, 2016; Irving, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys number one draft pick Ezekiel Elliott (21) runs drills during rookie minicamp at Dallas Cowboys headquarters at Valley Ranch. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dallas Cowboys rookie running back Ezekiel Elliott will not be able to show off his abs in the NFL.

During his time with the Ohio State Buckeyes, running back Ezekiel Elliott was never afraid to show off his abs and how tremendously in shape that he was.

He carried that personality over with him to the 2016 NFL Draft, when he showed up in a midriff dress shirt for everyone to check out his abs. The guy really likes showing everyone the work that he puts in on a daily basis.

While Elliott might like showing off his abs and not having his jersey cover his entire body, he’s going to have to cover up in the NFL.

NFL rules stipulate that the jersey be tucked into the pants and cover all padding being worn. More specifically as TheScore points out, Rule 5, Section 4, Item 2 of the NFL rule book state as follows:

"Jersey must cover all pads and other protective equipment worn on the torso and upper arms, and must be appropriately tailored to remain tucked into the uniform pants throughout the game. Tear-away jerseys are prohibited. Mesh jerseys with large fishnet material (commonly referred to as ‘bullet-hole’ or ‘port-hole’ mesh) are also prohibited. Surnames of players in letters a minimum of 2½ inches high must be affixed to the exterior of jerseys across the upper back above the numerals; nicknames are prohibited. All jerseys must carry a small NFL Shield logo at the middle of the yoke of the neck on the front of the garment. All fabrics must be approved by the League office prior to production."

At the end of the day it’s probably best for Elliott to cover up for his own protection. With an exposed abdomen and the bone-crushing hits of the league, he could take some serious hits that could take real damage. He will anyways with his jersey covered up.

If he really wants to go around showing off the abs, he can do it when he comes over to the sideline after a big play to show off to all of his fans. He can show off his abs anywhere he damn well pleases, just not on the field.

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