Cowboys' Dak Prescott talks 'tough' Ezekiel Elliott release: 'It hurt me'

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Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said it was the "best decision for everyone" that running back Ezekiel Elliott was released by the team on Wednesday, but his teammates still feel the sting of it.

Quarterback Dak Prescott has been with Elliott since they were both drafted in 2016 by the Cowboys. Elliott was the fourth overall pick that year, while Prescott came out of Mississippi State in the fourth round.

They’ve developed quite the friendship these past few years on and off the field, which makes this release more like losing a family member for Prescott.

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Dallas Cowboys running back Ezekiel Elliott (21) celebrates with quarterback Dak Prescott (4) after scoring a touchdown during the second half of an NFL football game against the Houston Texans, Sunday, Dec. 11, 2022, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

"It’s tough, a brother," Prescott told NFL.com. "Playing the game with a brother. To be able to start this NFL career and share so many memories and grow up as men … with this organization. Really can't imagine taking the field without him. I don't know if it's completely hit me yet. Obviously, I've talked to him. I'm hurt. I'm sure he is. It's more important for me to be able to support him. I know he's got more opportunities coming his way and love that guy, proud of him."

Elliott parting ways with the Cowboys comes after he agreed to a six-year, $90 million contract, $50 million of which was guaranteed. That took him through the 2026 NFL season with the Cowboys.

However, there was an opt-out clause the team could exercise in 2023, and that’s exactly what the front