5:04 PM PT -- TMZ Sports talked to Elliott's attorney, Frank Salzano, who tells us Zeke is dead serious about filing a lawsuit.
"We are extremely disappointed with the irresponsible journalism and willingness of Sports Illustrated (and others) to defame Mr. Elliott in an attempt to get readers to click on their websites."
We reached out to Sports Illustrated ... so far, no word back.
"Mr. Elliott will not tolerate slanderous conduct and intends to take the appropriate legal action to address it."
When Ezekiel Elliott said he was "low-key faded" during a Twitch stream Sunday night ... HE MEANT ON BOOZE, NOT WEED!
That's according to the Dallas Cowboys running back himself who says he's pissed people are accusing him of being lit on the wrong substance.
Whoops...Zeke talking about being too high on his livestream #EzekielElliott #Cowboys pic.twitter.com/KQeyoiJWFy
— EgotasticSports (@EgotasticSports) June 29, 2020
"Bro, I'm low-key faded, bro," Elliott said before realizing his stream was still live.
"Oh no, I didn't even end my stream yet," he said shortly after.
Some assumed "faded" meant high on marijuana -- and Sports Illustrated even ran an article saying Zeke "admits to being high."
Zeke went to social media Monday to set the record straight and he sounded pretty upset ... even threatening legal action.
"Actually I was referring to the few drinks I had which I said during the live stream. Doesn’t that make this defamation? You guys will be hearing from my lawyers @SInow."
Sports Illustrated has apparently taken the article down.
Elliott's had a rough couple of weeks -- he recently tested positive for COVID-19 but says he's mostly recovered and should be cleared to workout with the team again soon.
Hydrate, bro, it's good for a low-key hangover.
Originally published -- 3:32 PM PT