Shockwaves were sent throughout the sports world over the weekend, when the National Football League (NFL) suspended Cowboys running back, Ezekiel Elliott. Elliott has been suspended for six games for violating the NFL’s Personal Conduct Policy. Elliott is just the latest example, in a very tumultuous off-season for the NFL. Elliott’s suspension also puts a spotlight on domestic violence in the NFL.
Players committing domestic violence has been a frequent problem in the NFL. Elliott was involved in the most high-profile case of domestic violence in the league, since Ray Rice. This is the first time since then, that the league has used its Personal Conduct Policy as a baseline to suspend a player.
Elliott will reportedly appeal his suspension on Tuesday or Wednesday according to NFL.com.
Elliott is a very integral part of the Cowboys’ offense. Last season, Elliott rushed for 1,631 yards, averaged 5.1 yards per game, and scored 15 touchdowns. Elliott’s play really opened the entire field for his fellow rookie, quarterback Dak Prescott. The Cowboys made it to the playoffs thanks to their dynamic rookie duo.
With Elliott’s suspension, the Cowboys offense will suffer. Prescott will not have a reliable running back to help open the field for him. The Cowboys offense is predicated off, being able to run the ball on first and second down. Allowing the offense to have easier opportunities to gain a first down on third and short, instead of third down and ten yards to go to get a first down.
This suspension should serve as a wake-up call for Elliott, who has been involved in various incidents during the offseason. Elliott was involved in a bar fight in July. Being involved in this incident also brought a negative light to the NFL. Elliott needs to monitor himself while off the field. He must realize that he is a star player for one of the NFL’s marquee franchises, and needs to act accordingly.
Right now, Elliott is just the latest poster boy for domestic violence in the NFL, and that is not the poster Elliott wants to be on.
