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UPDATE (3/22/16): Morris signs with the Cowboys. Original story below.
The Philadelphia Eagles are interested in free agent running back Alfred Morris, according to a report from NFL insider Adam Schefter. Schefter said the following in an appearance on ESPN's NFL Insiders show on Monday afternoon.
"Alfred Morris is in Dallas today, visiting with the Dallas Cowboys. He’s actually got interest from three NFC East teams: the Dallas Cowboys, the Philadelphia Eagles, the Washington Redskins. He's spoken to all of those teams but is in Dallas today."
The fact that Schefter mentions multiple teams could be an indication someone is trying to create a competitive market for Morris. But for now let's assume the Eagles do have legitimate interest.
As a member of Washington for the past four seasons, Eagles fans should be familiar with the 27-year-old running back. After being drafted in the sixth round of the 2012 NFL Draft, Morris really exceeded expectations and burst onto the scene. He ran for 1,613 yards and 13 touchdowns as a rookie. His numbers have only declined since his impressive start. His worst season came last year when he finished with only one touchdown and 751 yards on 202 attempts for a mere 3.7 yards per carry.
Maybe the tough-running Morris can bounce back but maybe his usage has taken a toll on him. He's played in 64 out of 64 possible games, along with two playoff appearances.
The Eagles do need some help at running back. Ryan Mathews is talented but he's injury-prone and struggles with fumbles. It's hard to rely on him as a full-time starter for the entire season. Darren Sproles, who turns 33 in June, is best used as a part-time contributor. Philadelphia shouldn't be desperate to hand out big money to a running back (like they did last offseason with DeMarco Murray), but adding a veteran on an inexpensive deal could make sense.
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Hat tip to @eaglescentral on the find.