Report that “significant ground” still needs to be covered for an Ezekiel Elliott contract

The reports about a contract for Ezekiel Elliott from the Dallas Cowboys have been all over the map in the past month. We’ve heard about new offers being sent, we’ve seen both camps negotiate in the press, and just recently we heard that significant progress was being made on a contract and that things could wrap up by this weekend.

This news had Cowboys Nation drooling with anticipation. Unfortunately, a new report out this morning might mean more waiting.

David Moore at the DMN reports the following:

A source said there remains significant ground to cover as talks between the Cowboys and Ezekiel Elliott continue.

The two sides returned to the table in the last 24 hours in the hopes of hammering out an agreement that would get Elliott back on the field for the regular season opener. That remains the goal.

But the characterization that significant differences exist indicates that Elliott’s representatives still seek a contract that exceeds Todd Gurley’s contract with the LA Rams while the Cowboys are reluctant to scale those heights since the Pro Bowl running back still has two years left on his current contract.

And once again, the culprit seems to be guaranteed money. That has become paramount in NFL contracts lately, especially for a running back who has to deal with potential injuries and has a shorter shelf-life than any other position. Moore confirms that talks have intensified as previously reported, but it seems that gulf of $13 million of guaranteed money that Todd Gurley’s contract has over the second highest running back amount is the problem.

The Cowboys would like to get Elliott in by Wednesday if he is to be available for Week 1 versus the Giants. While Elliott has reportedly been staying in shape, the Cowboys would like to see him go through some practices before putting him on the field. Even then, it’s not likely Zeke would be ready for a full workload.

Time is ticking.