The Patriots are signing free-agent running back Ezekiel Elliott to a one-year contract worth up to $6 million, a source confirmed to the Boston Herald on Monday.

Elliott took a visit with the Patriots late last month. Their depth has been tested behind starter Rhamondre Stevenson as Ty Montgomery and Pierre Strong have missed training camp practices.

Elliott joins Stevenson, Montgomery, Strong, Kevin Harris, J.J. Taylor and C.J. Marable in the Patriots’ running back room.

Elliott has been a free agent since the Dallas Cowboys cut him March 15. The two-time All-Pro and three-time Pro Bowl selection will serve as valuable, experienced depth to create a two-headed monster with Stevenson in the Patriots’ backfield.

He carried the ball 231 times for 876 yards with 12 touchdowns in 15 games with the Cowboys while sharing time with Tony Pollard last season. Elliott can serve as a three-down back and is considered one of the better pass protectors among NFL running backs.

Elliott is one year removed from his last 1,000-yard campaign. He has 8,262 yards and 68 touchdowns on 1,881 career carries. He’s also added 305 career receptions for 2,336 yards with 12 touchdowns.

The deal was first reported by NFL Media.