OXNARD, Calif. – Ezekiel Elliott might be great at carrying the ball, but it's become quite clear that he can't carry a tune.
Elliott's singing chops have become a topic of much discussion in recent days, as he has apparently struggled in his mandatory performances in front of the Cowboys' team meeting room.
"I did have to sing last night. I didn't pass the test, so I've got to go again tonight," Elliott said on Sunday evening.
It's long been a hallmark of Cowboys coach Jason Garrett's training camps to have rookies sing in front of the team. Travis Frederick performed "I'm A Little Tea Pot" during his rookie year, and former safety Jakar Hamilton famously showed off an impressive voice.
Given that Elliott is about to have to sing for the third consecutive night, it doesn't seem like he can say the same. The rookie running back sang his Ohio State alma mater on Saturday night, which wasn't up to snuff.
He reportedly came back with a rendition of "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" on Sunday night. To hear it from fellow rookie Jaylon Smith, that wasn't too impressive, either.
"Average – not better than what my singing will be," Smith said.
Smith said he expects he'll have to sing at Monday night's session – but he might not be alone. Garrett didn't want to disclose much, but it doesn't sound like the first-round pick has finished the job just yet.
"He'll keep singing," Garrett said. "He's not done yet."
-- David Helman
