Ezekiel Elliott feels at home with Patriots - 'I'm a good fit' - ESPN

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — Veteran running back Ezekiel Elliott kept flashing smiles during his introductory news conference with New England Patriots reporters. At one point, he winked.

It reflects how Elliott, after spending the first seven years of his NFL career with the Dallas Cowboys, has quickly felt at home as a Patriot.

«I think if you look at my play style and the culture of this team, it's a good match. I think I'm a good fit,» he said Wednesday.

«I was at home for a long time, so I thought I definitely should come in and be kind of an energizer boost. The transition has been good. I've been getting along with the team. Love the coaches, love the atmosphere and love this program. Just having fun.»

As for the idea of proving doubters wrong, he said: «I don't think any outside entity could put more pressure on me than any pressure I have for myself. So, it's not really to go out and prove anything to anyone but just go out there and show what kind of player I am.»

The Patriots officially announced Elliott's signing on Aug. 16, and as part of coach Bill Belichick's preference to limit hype, Elliott wasn't made available to speak with reporters until seven days later.

The 28-year-old Elliott referred to Belichick as a «great coach» and «funny guy» on Wednesday, adding that he «demands excellence of his team and knows how to get it out of it.»

Belichick has gradually increased Elliott's workload over the last week, and in Wednesday's full-pads practice, Elliott's presence at the goal-line was notable when he showed impressive vision and decisiveness to cut back between the right guard and right tackle for a would-be touchdown.

Elliott has been taking snaps behind starter Rhamondre Stevenson, with whom he shares the same