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After signing three UDFA backs that are a lot like Darren Sproles, the Eagles are apparently a finalist for the real thing. San Diego Chargers beat writer Kevin Acee is reporting that Darren Sproles has narrowed down his list of teams to New Orleans, San Diego and Philadelphia and that he will make a decision soon.
Sproles is the pro-typical small, do-everything complimentary back. He has the ability to break off exciting runs, but most of his value comes in the passing game and as a return man. In his career, Sproles has two kicks and two punts for TDs. He caught 59 passes for 529 yards and rushed for 267 yards (5.7 per) last season. Over the last two years, he's had 19 offensive plays of over 20 yards.
So he's a home run hitter, he would provide value on special teams and would take some of the load off LeSean McCoy. When when we think about what a backup running back should be, we usually always focus on how many carries he might get per game. But when you look at LeSean McCoy and the Eagles offense, it really is about how many touches he's getting. McCoy had 207 carries last year, but he caught nearly 80 passes. So we're talking nearly 300 touches. Sproles could take some carries of his hands, but could also relieve McCoy of some touches in the passing game as well.