In a bold move reflecting both love and confidence in his son, Ezekiel Elliott, Stacy Elliott has put his money where his mouth is. The father of the Dallas Cowboys running back is offering a whopping $10,000 to anyone who can convincingly prove that Zeke is “washed” and no longer the player he was during his explosive 2016 season.

Ezekiel Elliott, once regarded as one of the premier running backs in the NFL, faced scrutiny over the past few seasons regarding his performance. Critics have pointed to various factors, including injuries, offensive line changes, and the emergence of other running back talents, leading to questions about his effectiveness. However, Stacy Elliott is determined to silence these doubts and stands firmly by his son’s capabilities on the field.

Stacy took to social media to announce his challenge, expressing frustration over what he perceives as unfair criticism of his son. “I’m tired of people saying Zeke is washed,” he tweeted. “If anyone can show me proof that Zeke isn’t capable of playing at a high level anymore, I’ll give you $10,000. Otherwise, let my son play the game he loves without all the noise.”

This declaration has sparked conversations among fans, analysts, and commentators alike. Supporters of Ezekiel Elliott have rallied around his father’s stance, emphasizing Zeke’s accomplishments, including leading the league in rushing yards as a rookie and being named to multiple Pro Bowls. They argue that the running back still possesses the talent and drive necessary to succeed, especially in a revamped Cowboys offense.

On the flip side, skeptics continue to highlight Elliott’s declining statistics over the past few seasons, raising questions about whether he can return to his 2016 form when he dominated defenses with his combination of speed, power, and agility. The 2016 season saw him rush for over 1,600 yards and score 15 touchdowns, solidifying his status as a game-changing player.

As the challenge gains traction, it has opened up a broader dialogue about the nature of performance evaluations in the NFL. Fans and analysts alike are debating the criteria that should be used to judge a player’s performance and the impact of factors outside of their control, such as team dynamics and coaching strategies.

While the $10,000 challenge is certainly provocative, it also underscores the deep bond between Ezekiel and his father, who has been a steadfast supporter throughout his career. Stacy’s passionate defense of his son serves as a reminder that behind every athlete is a family eager to protect their legacy.

As the Dallas Cowboys gear up for the upcoming season, all eyes will be on Ezekiel Elliott to see if he can prove the doubters wrong and reclaim his status as one of the elite running backs in the league. With his father’s challenge hanging in the air, it’s clear that the stakes are high—not just for Zeke, but for the entire Cowboys organization as they look to make a significant impact in the NFL this year.