Fansided

32 breakout fantasy football players for the 2016-17 NFL season

By Andrew C. Lovell

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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May 6, 2016; Irving, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys number one draft pick Ezekiel Elliott (21) makes a catch 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) makes a catch during rookie minicamp at Dallas Cowboys headquarters at Valley Ranch. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /

Dallas Cowboys – RB Ezekiel Elliott

Well, this one was obvious, wasn’t it? What’s not to love about the situation Elliott landed in?

Elliott was widely regarded as the most talented running back in this year’s draft and the Cowboys, still smarting after letting 2014 NFL rushing leader DeMarco Murray depart in free agency, scooped him up with the No. 4 overall selection.

Elliott joins a suddenly-crowded backfield that includes a pair of veteran 1,000-yard rushers in Darren McFadden and Alfred Morris, as well as change-of-pace pass-catcher Lance Dunbar. That shouldn’t deter you. Elliott should emerge as the primary ball carrier, barring an unforeseen development.

The Cowboys boast one of the NFL’s premier offensive lines, led by Pro Bowl left tackle Tyron Smith. Despite limping to a 4-12 finish after another injury-plagued season from quarterback Tony Romo, Dallas still finished in the top 10 in rushing yards. That was with McFadden in a losing season, so imagine the production with Elliott if the Cowboys are contenders again this season.

Given the combination of his own impressive skill-set, the Cowboys’ considerable offensive line talent, and the team’s overall commitment to running the ball, Elliott already stands as legitimate RB1 entering his first NFL season. Draft him with confidence.

Next: Denver Broncos

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