Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott wasn’t present for the opening of training camp on Friday, missing the team physical and a conditioning run, NFL Network reported.
He was not on the team’s plane headed to the Oxnard, Calif., camp on Thursday but could have traveled on his own to meet the report date.
“He’s late,” owner Jerry Jones said. “We have reported.”
Elliott could be fined up to $40,000 for each day of camp he misses.
Coach Jason Garrett said the Cowboys will do their work without Elliott.
“We expect all our players to be here,” he told reporters. “Zeke has been a good player for us for the last three years. This is the business of the NFL that happens. Our focus is on the guys who are here.”
Executive vice president Stephen Jones confirmed Friday that the Cowboys have negotiated with Elliott’s agents.
“This is a business to them. It is their livelihood,” he said. “It does no good to give daily updates. Certainly, we’ll be working behind the scenes.
“We feel optimistic. These things usually work themselves out.”
Elliott is the second high-profile running back to hold out. Los Angeles Chargers running back Melvin Gordon also was a no-show.
Elliott, who was the fourth overall selection by the Cowboys in the 2016 NFL Draft, will make $3.85 million in the upcoming season, with an option in 2020 for $9.10 million.
The Ohio State product rushed for an NFL-leading 1,434 yards in 2018, and his 95.6 yards per game also led the league. He had six rushing touchdowns and three receiving.
Elliott, 24, has started all 40 games he has played in over the past three seasons. He has rushed for 4,048 yards on 868 carries with 28 touchdowns. He also has 135 receptions for 1,199 yards and six more TDs.
He is expected to be seeking a deal similar to that given to Todd Gurley of the Los Angeles Rams, who is under contract for four years and $57.5 million.
-Field Level Media
