Prescott hurt after Elliott release: 'Can't imagine taking the field without him'

Quarterback Dak Prescott said he's hurt after the Dallas Cowboys released running back Ezekiel Elliott.

"I really can't imagine taking the field without him," Prescott said Thursday, according to Jon Machota of The Athletic.

The Cowboys released Elliott after seven seasons with the team. Elliott was set to account for a $16.7-million cap hit in 2023, according to Over The Cap.

Prescott and Elliott entered the league together and had been teammates since being selected by Dallas in the 2016 draft.

"It's tough," Prescott said. "A brother, playing the game with a brother, being able to start this NFL career and share so many memories and grow up as men.

"I don't know if it has completely hit me yet. Obviously, I've talked to him. I'm hurt, and I'm sure he is. But it's more important for me to be able to be there to support him."

Elliott got off to a hot start in the NFL, rushing for 5,405 yards in his first 56 games. However, his play declined after the 2019 season, averaging only four yards per carry across his final three seasons with the Cowboys.