Another Monday evening brings another chapter of the ongoing Ezekiel Elliott versus NFL legal drama. Tonight, U.S. District Court Judge Katherine Failla ruled in the NFL's favor and dissolved the earlier temporary restraining order against Elliott's six-game suspension and denied Elliott's motion.
It means Elliott's suspension is back in place and he would immediately start serving it this week when the Cowboys face the Kansas City Chiefs. For fantasy owners and Cowboys fans, it serves as a massive blow to the remaining outlook for their respective seasons. As of tonight, Elliott wouldn't be able to return to the field until Week 15 against the Oakland Raiders. It would bring him back just in time for the fantasy playoffs, but a six-week absence would be a massive blow to those rostering him.
Naturally, the saga isn't completely over. The judge allowed a 24-hour window for Elliott's legal team to file an appeal, which his representatives will almost certainly take. It adds some more uncertainty to exactly when his suspension will really begin and he won't be suited up for the Dallas Cowboys. For now, fantasy owners should assume Elliott will miss the next six games.
If they are still available, rush to pick up Darren McFadden and Alfred Morris. While we aren't sure which of the two will emerge as Dallas' more prominently used running back, but both offer potential RB2 upside if they are given a substantial amount of carries.