The Philadelphia Eagles announced on Friday that they have agreed to a one-year deal to bring running back Darren Sproles for his 14th NFL season. Sproles will enhance a crowded backfield that features Jordan Howard, second-round pick Miles Sanders, and Corey Clement among others.
With Howie Roseman pulling the trigger to bring Sproles back, here are four takeaways from the signing.
Miles Sanders injury-plagued spring opened the door
Sproles is obviously back to return punts and more importantly, ensure that the Eagles have a viable receiving threat in the game on third downs. Sanders missing most of the offseason with a hamstring injury eliminated any chance for Doug Pederson and Mike Groh to evaluate the second-round picks ability in the passing game.
Boston Scott hasn’t locked down a roster spot
Earlier during OTAs, there was some discussion about Scott leapfrogging several Eagles running backs to land a roster spot, solely on his ability to make a difference in the return game. That may not be the case, and it’ll be interesting to see how long Scott hangs around on the roster.
Sproles is the consummate leader
Regardless of how loaded an NFL franchise’s roster is, you can never have enough good leadership to help corral all of that talent. Sproles is as professional as they come and can definitely help Miles Sanders navigate as a rookie while offering tips and pointers to Jordan Howard as well. It wouldn’t be shocking to know that Sproles is a calming influence for Carson Wentz as well.
Sproles wants to earn a ring
Sproles only played in a handful of games during the Eagles 2017 Super Bowl run, and after missing 10 games in 2018, the veteran running back hinted at not wanting to retire on injured reserve. Howie Roseman hinted at wanting to give Jason Peters and Sproles the opportunity to go out as winners and as guys who contributed to a championship run.
