Ezekiel Elliott has punished defenders with his running style and won over fans with his playful antics and cartoon giggle.

Tyron Smith has been a quiet pillar of the offensive line for the better part of decade.

Elliott and Smith are two of the more accomplished and decorated players in a Cowboys uniform. They have become associated with this team.

That doesn’t mean they’ll be back next season.

But wait. Didn’t Jerry Jones just tell reporters that he’d like for both players to return?

Yes. But when has the Cowboys owner ever not wanted to welcome veterans back at this stage of the offseason? Jerry and Stephen Jones also made other comments around that soundbite, some that didn’t gain as much traction, that make clear serious discussions must be undertaken before the return of Elliott and Smith becomes a reality.