Unveiling Ezekiel Elliott's Fantasy Football Potential: A Deep Dive
Hello, fantasy football enthusiasts! Buckle up as we're about to dive headfirst into the exciting world of Ezekiel Elliott and his potential in fantasy football. If you're here, you're probably already aware that Zeke is a force to be reckoned with on the gridiron, but let's explore why he's a top pick for your fantasy team. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and ezekiel elliott fantasy football.
Who's Ezekiel Elliott, and Why Should You Care?
Ezekiel Elliott, often referred to as Zeke, is a running back for the Dallas Cowboys. Drafted fourth overall in the 2016 NFL Draft, Elliott has quickly established himself as one of the league's premier running backs. Born on July 22, 1995, in Alton, Illinois, Zeke played college football at Ohio State, where he won the 2015 College Football Playoff National Championship and was named the MVP of the game.
Now, you might be wondering, "Why should I care about Ezekiel Elliott for fantasy football?" Well, let us enlighten you!
Zeke's Impressive NFL Career So Far
In his rookie season, Zeke didn't disappoint. He rushed for 1,631 yards and 15 touchdowns, earning him the NFL rushing title and Offensive Rookie of the Year honors. He followed that up with another impressive season in 2017, rushing for 1,434 yards and 12 touchdowns. Although his 2018 season was cut short due to a suspension, Zeke still managed to rack up 785 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns in just 10 games.
In 2019, Zeke came back stronger than ever, leading the league in rushing yards with 1,434 and scoring 12 touchdowns. He also added 54 catches for 420 yards and 2 touchdowns through the air. And if you thought that was impressive, Zeke followed that up with another outstanding season in 2020, rushing for 1,002 yards and 6 touchdowns, while also catching 31 passes for 229 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Why Ezekiel Elliott is a Fantasy Football Goldmine
Elite Production
Zeke's consistent elite production is the first reason he's a fantasy goldmine. He's finished as a top-5 fantasy running back in four out of his five full seasons. That kind of consistency is invaluable in fantasy football.
Workhorse Role
Another reason Zeke is a fantasy asset is his workhorse role in the Cowboys' offense. The Cowboys have consistently given Zeke a high volume of touches, making him a reliable source of fantasy points. In his five full seasons, Zeke has averaged 278.6 touches per season, and that number is even higher when you consider that his 2018 season was cut short.
Versatility
Zeke's not just a between-the-tackles runner; he's also a threat in the passing game. He's caught at least 54 passes in three of his full seasons, providing fantasy managers with a valuable PPR (Points Per Reception) boost.
Opportunity Knocks
With the Cowboys' offense revolving around their running game, Zeke should continue to see a high volume of touches. The Cowboys' offensive line, one of the best in the league, also helps pave the way for Zeke's success.
Potential Roadblocks
While Zeke's fantasy potential is immense, there are a few potential roadblocks to consider.
Age and Wear and Tear
Zeke is already 26 years old, and running backs typically see a decline in production in their late 20s. While Zeke has shown no signs of slowing down, it's something to keep in mind.
Contract Situation
Zeke's contract situation has been a source of drama in the past, and it's possible that could impact his fantasy production in the future. However, the Cowboys have expressed a desire to keep Zeke long-term, so this might not be an issue.
Injuries
Like any player, Zeke is not immune to injuries. A major injury could derail his fantasy season, so it's important to keep an eye on his health leading up to the season.
Draft Strategy: Where to Draft Ezekiel Elliott
Given his elite production, workhorse role, and versatility, Zeke is a top-5 pick in fantasy drafts. In PPR formats, he could even go as high as the first overall pick. However, it's important to consider his age, contract situation, and injury history when making your decision.
Conclusion: Ezekiel Elliott is a Fantasy Football Force
In conclusion, Ezekiel Elliott is a fantasy football force to be reckoned with. His elite production, workhorse role, and versatility make him a valuable asset in any fantasy league. While there are potential roadblocks to consider, Zeke's fantasy potential is too great to ignore. So, go ahead and draft Zeke with confidence, knowing that you're adding a true game-changer to your fantasy team.
Happy drafting, and we'll see you on the virtual gridiron!