ATLANTA — In an anticipated move, running back Ezekiel Elliott will not be participating in the Dallas Cowboys’ matchup against the Atlanta Falcons this Sunday. This absence leaves Rico Dowdle and Dalvin Cook as the primary options in a struggling running game, as the Cowboys aim to snap a two-game losing streak.

The Cowboys did not elaborate on Elliott’s situation when they announced on Saturday that he wouldn’t be traveling to Atlanta. Notably, this marks the first time in eight seasons, across two tenures with the Cowboys, that he is missing a game for reasons other than injury, suspension, or when the situation didn’t require using the lead back. Reports suggest that Elliott’s absence is due to disciplinary reasons from unnamed sources.

Dallas enters this critical matchup with a 3-4 record, also facing challenges on defense. They will be without defensive end Micah Parsons (ankle) and cornerback DaRon Bland (foot) as they attempt to improve their standing and revive their hopes for playoffs.

On a more positive note, cornerback Trevon Diggs is cleared to play after testing his sore calf in warmups, and linebacker Erick Kendricks, who had been dealing with a shoulder injury, is also available for action.

The 29-year-old Elliott is currently averaging only 3.1 yards per carry, a career-low performance, having gained just 149 yards on 48 attempts with two rushing touchdowns. The Cowboys currently sit at the bottom of the NFL rankings, averaging just 74 rushing yards per game, with quarterback Dak Prescott being the only other player to record a rushing touchdown this season.

Dalvin Cook has been elevated from the practice squad for the second week in a row, and Dowdle is the team’s rushing leader with 246 yards.

Additionally, the Falcons have also announced some of their own inactives, including linebackers Troy Andersen (knee) and JD Bertrand (concussion). However, right guard Chris Lindstrom (knee) will be available to play.