Why Ezekiel Elliott Enjoys Playing For ‘Tough Coach’ Like Bill Belichick

Elliott also said he'd be 'open' to re-signing with the Patriots

When the Patriots signed Ezekiel Elliott last summer, it was fair to wonder whether he’d be a good fit in New England. Would a player of his stardom mesh well with Bill Belichick, who believes in no sacred cows?

The answer to both those questions is a resounding “yes.”

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Belichick has had nothing but great things to say about Elliott throughout the season, including after the star back delivered a “pro performance” against the Pittsburgh Steelers last Thursday. Elliott returned the favor Wednesday when asked about the mounting criticism directed toward his head coach.

“I mean, he’s definitely a tough coach,” Elliott said during a news conference. “I think he’s a tough coach. But if you’re a tough player, then you like to be coached tough. And so, I think every day he holds everyone in this building to the highest level.

“Everyone knows the standard. And I think he’s been consistent with that since I’ve been here, and I really respect that.”

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Elliott also said he’d be “open” to returning to the Patriots despite the team’s failures in 2023. The 28-year-old is set to hit free agency this offseason.

New England will look to make it two wins in a row this Sunday when the Kansas City Chiefs visit Gillette Stadium.

About the Author

Dakota Randall

Plymouth State/Boston University product from Wolfeboro, NH, who now is based in Rhode Island. Have worked at NESN since 2016, covering the Patriots since 2021. Might chat your ear off about Disney World, Halo 2, and Lord of the Rings.