Ezekiel Elliott rumors: Suspension could be reduced

The NFL issued Ezekiel Elliott a six-game suspension for 2017 season but there is reason to believe that it could be reduced.

Ezekiel Elliott lead the NFL in rushing during his rookie season. The Ohio State product ran for 1,631 yards in 2016, but after he received a letter from the league suspending him for six games, that production seems unlikely.

Elliott was suspended for violating the league’s personal conduct policy in an incident that happened in July 2016.

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, this suspension might get reduced before the season starts. “The more that I have heard, the more I think he has a real chance to have some games knocked off the suspension,” Schefter said on ESPN’s Mike & Mike.

For anyone that is a fan of the Cowboys, that statement from Schefter had to make them feel as though their star could return sooner rather than later. This whole situation began when Tiffany Thompson, Elliott’s ex-girlfriend, told the police that he hit her while they were sitting in a parked car in Columbus, Ohio. Although Elliott was not charged with any crimes, he still received a suspension from the NFL.

His appeal filed by the NFL Players’ Association was heard on Tuesday, which has now dragged on for three days. Elliott is not set to return until Week 8 against the Redskins.

The Cowboys’ first six opponents are the Giants, Broncos, Cardinals, Rams, Packers and 49ers. Even without their stud running back, it is not crazy to think the Cowboys can go 4-2 during those games. This would keep them right in the division race.

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With Elliott out, expect Darren McFadden to receive a bulk of the carries for Dallas. Alfred Morris and Ronnie Hillman will also see an increase in work. Once Elliott returns, he will go back to being the workhorse of that offense.