Ezekiel Elliott update: Cowboys RB inactive for Sunday due to ‘disciplinary reason’

The Cowboys are traveling to Atlanta for an all-important NFC clash with the Falcons this weekend, but Ezekiel Elliott is staying behind for Dallas.

According to ESPN's Todd Archer, Elliott didn't travel with the team for their Week 9 game due to disciplinary reasons, and the veteran running back will be inactive.

"Cowboys RB Ezekiel Elliott did not travel to Atlanta because of disciplinary reasons and will be inactive Sunday, per ESPN's Adam Schefter of ESPN posted on X .

Earlier in October, Elliott was frustrated with the Cowboys' running game, along with his perceived lack of opportunities. He's not the same running back he once was, but it's evident the former top five draft pick believes he's deserving of more than he's received in his return to Dallas.

On the season, Elliott has carried the football 48 times for 149 yards and two touchdowns. Last weekend, he seemed to turn a corner, rushing ten times for 34 yards and a touchdown, his second best performance of the season after Dallas' opening week victory against the Cleveland Browns.

In Elliott's stead, veteran running back Dalvin Cook is expected to be elevated, but it remains to be seen how much burn he gets against the Falcons. One thing is for sure, Sunday is a must-win for the Cowboys, as they look to even up their record at 4-4 by the end of Week 9.

More on Dallas Cowboys at Atlanta Falcons

In addition to Ezekiel Elliott, the Dallas Cowboys have made a decision on two key defenders for Sunday's game, defensive end Micah Parsons and cornerback DaRon Bland . Both players have been ruled out for the matchup, according to Jon Machota .

"Cowboys DE Micah Parsons and CB DaRon Bland have officially been ruled out for Sunday's game at Atlanta," Machota posted on X.

Micah Parsons and DaRon Bland both missed practices on Wednesday and Thursday. Parsons is dealing with an ankle injury and has missed the last three games. Bland has not played all season due to a foot injury but was recently activated off injured reserve.