Eagles Position Reviews: Running Backs

Now that the offseason has officially started for the Eagles, Andy Reid and company will have to spend the next couple of weeks carefully scrutinizing the 2010 roster. The free agency signing period begins in a little over a month and a half and by that time, the front office should have a good idea of which Eagles players they'll want to bring back for the 2011 season (if there is one). Today, BGN takes a look at the running back position.

The Players

LeSean McCoy: After a near-Pro Bowl year, McCoy has solidified his status as the heir to Brian Westbrook's throne. He has two years left on his rookie deal and will be back for another monster season in 2011.

Jerome Harrison: Since the Eagles acquired him in a trade with Cleveland, Harrison has won the hearts of Eagles fans everywhere with an impressive backup performance. During his eight weeks with the team, he averaged 6.0 yards per carry, including a memorable 50-yard touchdown run against the Redskins in week 10. He'll be a free agent come February, however, unless the Eagles decide to bring him back. Unless he starts demanding a shot at a starting role somewhere, he should be well worth the money.

Eldra Buckley: Working primarily as a special teamer, Buckley saw limited action as a running back this season. Although he's only 25 and in his second NFL season, the Eagles may decide to let him walk via free agency due to his lack of an upside.

Leonard Weaver: Although the Pro Bowl fullback established himself in 2009 as one of the most talented and exciting fullbacks to ever don an Eagles uniform, his nerve damaged knee presents a quandary for the Eagles front office. Weaver still has two years left on his three year deal, but his severe injury could keep him from being the effective player he once was. The decision to keep him will likely come down to training camp.

Owen Schmitt: From starting on his couch at home to earning a spot as a Pro Bowl alternate, Schmitt has certainly exceeded the expectations of the Eagles staff. His current contract status is unknown, but he is certainly worth keeping on for another season should Weaver's knee fail to recover fully.

Who Could Leave

Eldra Buckley, Leonard Weaver, Owen Schmitt

Who Could Sign

Leon Washington and Darren Sproles will be free agents and could be a solid additions to the lineup. Their highly-valued kick return skills would also satisfy another team need.

Brandon Jackson of the Green Bay Packers could also be headed for free agency now that James Starks has taken on a larger role in the offense. He would be a solid number two if Harrison doesn't re-sign.

The power running Quinton Ganther has bounced around the league for a few seasons, but has accumulated experience at both the halfback and fullback positions. He can also help out on special teams and could be a candidate to replace Buckley should the Bills elect not re-sign him.