Jay Ajayi’s contract has a unique clause that could keep him with Eagles in 2020

The Philadelphia Eagles signed running back Jay Ajayi on Friday after Jordan Howard and Darren Sproles both suffered injuries.

Ajayi’s signing wasn’t expected to be for more than a week to week basis, but according to Ian Rapoport, the running back could be with the Eagles next season as well.

Interesting tidbit to #Eagles RB Jay Ajayi’s contract with his new team. It includes a right of first refusal for the team during the 2020 offseason, source said. That means Philly can match any offer Ajayi receives.

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 18, 2019

According to Rapoport, the structure is similar to that of a restricted free agent, and it would make it easier for the Eagles to bring back Ajayi for another season if another team shows interest in the offseason.

Ajayi could have a role with the Eagles next season if the team moves on from Darren Sproles and Corey Clement.

Sproles is on injured reserve with a torn hip flexor, and his career could be over. Jordan Howard has a shoulder injury that kept him out of Sunday’s loss to the New England Patriots and will be a free agent after this season.

The final six weeks of the season are essentially an audition for Ajayi with the Eagles and other teams who’ll likely have a need for the running back position.