If you're a fan of the Dallas Cowboys or a member of Cowboys Nation, then you know the meaning of the “right kind of guy” mantra. It all started when Jason Garrett took over as head coach of the Cowboys and has been echoed by nearly every member of the organization. But, due to recent events I've started wondering if Ezekiel Elliott is a “right kind of guy”.
Ezekiel Elliott is without a doubt one of the best running backs in the entire NFL and seems to be well-liked by his teammates. But, that's the on the field stuff that has earned him the chance to play in the league. Unfortunately, it takes more than being talented and well-liked by your peers to have a lasting career in the NFL.
If Ezekiel Elliott isn't careful, he could be heading down a dangerous path that could lead to his career being shortened. Fortunately though, he really hasn't done anything illegal that would get him in trouble with the law, but that doesn't mean diddly squat to Commissioner Roger Goodell.
Goodell has the power to hand down suspensions even if an NFL player hasn't done anything technically illegal. That's the category Ezekiel Elliott finds himself in right now and why he could be looking at a suspension to start the 2017 season.
If we are judging by recent events then Ezekiel Elliott doesn't fit into that “right kind of guy” mantra Jason Garrett has preached as a head coach. He believes players should be able to take care of their business on and off the field and that they are mature enough to do so. Unfortunately, Zeke's maturity is certainly questionable as things stand right now.
The Cowboys second-year RB has without a doubt found himself in some difficult situations since turning pro. In each instance the details are sketchy, but he's going to have to learn he is now a public figure and everything he does/says will be heavily scrutinized. Unfortunately, that's just the nature of the business.
Now, I still believe Ezekiel Elliott is the “right kind of guy” and the type of player the Dallas Cowboys try to build their roster around, but something is going to have to change. Fortunately for him though, he has several teammates who can help make sure he is going down the right path.
It sometimes just takes a little longer for professional athletes to figure things out. They go from a college athlete to a multi-million dollar professional player nearly overnight and that can sometimes be a huge adjustment. We're just going to have to hope #21 figures everything out sooner rather than later.
