24 August 2023 , 18:17
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Ezekiel Elliott is determined to put last season's career lows of 876 yards and 3.8 yards per carry behind him after being released by the Dallas Cowboys before joining the New England Patriots.
The running back, 28, has been settling into life well in New England and says nobody can put more pressure on him than himself ahead of the 2023 NFL campaign - not even legendary coach Bill Belichick. "I don't think any outside entity could put more pressure on me than any pressure I have for myself," he said. "So, it's not really to go out and prove anything to anyone but just go out there and show what kind of player I am."
Elliott, who signed a one-year deal with the Patriots worth up to a potential $6million (£4.76m), says his playing style will see him fit right in with his new teammates and believes the atmosphere is one in which he can thrive. "I think if you look at my play style and the culture of this team, it's a good match. I think I'm a good fit," Elliott added. "I was at home for a long time, so I thought I definitely should come in and be kind of an energiser boost. The transition has been good. I've been getting along with the team. [I] love the coaches, love the atmosphere and love this program. [I'm] just having fun."
Elliott was once the poster boy for the running back market, so much so that the Cowboys handed him a $15m-a-year deal. However, after thrashing out new terms, the one-time All-Pro failed to produce results, bringing his stay in Dallas to an end after seven seasons.
The NFL veteran could feature for the Patriots in Friday's preseason friendly against the Tennessee Titans and Elliott insists that he's ready to play despite still learning the New England way. "I'm still getting into that playbook, but I'm getting there," he told reporters following Wednesday's practice.
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The running back left the Cowboys after seven seasons (Getty)"Not being signed all offseason, I've been feeling anxious to get back out there. I feel good, and I feel like I'm ready to play. I've been home for a long time, so I have a lot of energy." Friday's date with the Titans will close the curtain on the Patriots' preseason before the September 10 league opener against Super Bowl finalists, the Philadelphia Eagles. The Patriots will then welcome the Miami Dolphins before going on their first away day of the season at the New York Jets.