There's growing optimism that Ezekiel Elliott could be on the field for Week 1.
According to NFL Media, which cited unidentified sources, the Cowboys running back is set to fly back to the Dallas area this week after training in Mexico.
The report noted a deal is not done and some obstacles remain, but Elliott will be in town in case the two sides can reach an agreement.
ESPN later reported that Elliott and the Cowboys are "very close" to an agreement and are "acting with a sense of urgency to finalize a deal in the next 24 hours."
Speaking on 105.3 The Fan in Dallas on Tuesday, Cowboys owner Jerry Jones discussed the possibility of Elliott playing in the team's regular-season opener against the Giants.
"It would be great — will be and would be — if before a short period of time passes, Zeke would be in that group," Jones said. "We’ll see how today goes, we’ll see how tomorrow goes, we’ll see how the ensuing hours pan out."
When asked if Dak Prescott can carry the team without Elliott, Jones expressed his faith in the fourth-year quarterback.
"Absolutely. Absolutely. Unquestionably," Jones said.
Elliott, who has one year left on his rookie contract as well as a fifth-year team option, reportedly was offered a deal that would make him the league's second-highest paid rusher, but he's holding out for the long haul.
He earned his second rushing title in three years with 1,434 yards on a league-high 304 carries with six touchdowns last season and added 77 receptions for 567 yards with three scores.
The Cowboys are slated to host the Giants at 4:25 p.m. ET Sunday.