:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/56591089/631767762.0.jpg)
It looks like Ezekiel Elliott might not miss any games during the 2017 season after all. Here’s a new update on the Zeke situation, via ESPN.
Federal judge Amos Mazzant III granted a request by the NFL Players Association for a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction to prevent the implementation of the six-game suspension for Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott.
Elliott was already eligible to play in Sunday's season opener against the New York Giants but his suspension for violating the league's personal conduct policy was set to begin Monday. With the injunction granted, Elliott will likely be able to continue playing as the legal process plays out.
Just because Elliott’s potential six-game suspension is blocked for now doesn’t mean he’s out of the woods just yet. This legal process is bound to be drawn out for a long time. Something to consider:
While Ezekiel Elliott has won this round, Tom Brady and Adrian Peterson won the first round, too. Both ultimately served full suspensions.
— Michael McCann (@McCannSportsLaw) September 8, 2017
It’s also possible Elliott’s suspension could come into effect later this season. Note that the Cowboys don’t play the Philadelphia Eagles until Week 11 and Week 17.
The risk in the TRO for Elliott is the chance case is decided in November or December. Likelihood, tho, is it won't be til after the season.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) September 8, 2017
And if he lost and appealed to the circuit court, then he'd have to get a new TRO there (tougher) to keep kicking the can down the road.
— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) September 8, 2017
Again, this Elliott situation is far from over. Even if Zeke gets to play all 16 games this season, the case will be a year(s)-long distraction for Elliott and the Cowboys.