The Philadelphia Eagles’ depth at running back is a tough pill to swallow for a team that willingly traded DeMarco Murray away for what amounts to a high fourth-round pick.
Ryan Mathews is currently slated to be the starting running back in head coach Doug Pederson’s offense this season, and that would not be such a terrible idea for a year if he did not have an extensive injury history.
Running back Darren Sproles has only had limited practice since the beginning of mandatory camp, and his age suggests that his production and usefulness will be on the decline this season.
Eagles fifth-round pick Wendell Smallwood seems to be an interesting fit for the team, but his skills seem to be identical to the skills Sproles has, and it’s pretty obvious which is the better back (Sproles).
Kenjon Barner is being called the potential future of the team at running back, but his ability does not match that title as of today. At the end of the day, the question marks for this position seem strong enough that one could surmise that additions could be made before training camp.
How about Arian Foster?
Pro Football Rumors recently published a story analyzing 8 potential fits for Foster, and the Philadelphia Eagles popped up on the list (for all the reasons stated above). Adding him to this running back stable would definitely have its benefits, although the idea that the Eagles would target another aging runner is not likely.
With rookie quarterback Carson Wentz coming to town, the team seems to have its sights set on the future, and winning it all does not seem possible right now. However, assuming Pederson convinces EVP of personnel Howie Roseman to give him another option at running back, Foster would be a perfect fit.
The question with Foster is, and has always been, about whether he can stay healthy for the entire season, which is very Sam Bradford-ish. Still, if he could stay healthy through the preseason, Foster’s role could be significant.
With some combination between Sproles, Mathews, Smallwood, and Barner on the roster, Foster would have no worries of having to carry the rock more than 5-10 times a game, which could do wonders for his long-term health in the NFL. It is unlikely that he would stay in Philadelphia longer than a single season, but his presence would certainly put a great deal of stability and depth at the position.
Foster will not be joining any team until he is willing to pass a physical and work out, which he has made plans to do in July, according to Adam Schefter. Having the extra time will definitely give him a better chance of getting in football shape, but it also allows NFL teams to get a feel for who they already have on their roster.
A spot on a team’s camp roster will not be in short supply for a 30-year-old back because, when healthy, he can easily break games open. His age and attrition will also allow teams to avoid giving him a long-term deal.
All in all, the Eagles could use him this upcoming season, so lets hope Pederson decides to send Foster an invite to the NovaCare Complex this summer.