The Philadelphia Eagles run game was a weak spot in 2015. The team struggled with the four-headed rotation and it caused a lot of frustration for everyone involved. This offseason they have a decision to make with one of those rushers as Darren Sproles sits with one year left on his contract and an uncertain future. The 32-year-old has made it clear that he would like to return to Philadelphia and play out the rest of his deal, but the Eagles might have another plan.
According to Eliot Shorr-Parks of NJ.com, Sproles is a potential trade asset for the Eagles this offseason rather than simply being released. Shorr-Parks believes the running back could be worth a mid-round pick considering his value on special teams and ability to be a change-of-pace running back. The Eagles would rather test his value on the market before making a decision regarding another kind of move. Shorr-Parks believes that if a trade cannot be found, Sproles will not be released and instead will play out the rest of his contract which is what the running back wants.
"I still want to be playing and it bothers me we're not in the playoffs," Sproles said, via CBSPhilly.com. "I'll go back and train and spend time with my family. Things will depend on the new coach. I still fight the same battle. I'm small so there is this fear that I'm going to get hurt (if carrying the ball too much). I am satisfied with my touches. But I understand that it's always going to be the battle. It is what it is. I feel good. We'll see where the future lies."
Sproles is not the only player have his future put into question. The Eagles have already gotten Zach Ertz, Brent Celek and Lane Johnson signed to new deals while opening up negotiations for others. The more contracts given out, the less likely it is that Riley Cooper returns. According to Jeff McLane of Philly.com, Cooper is a cap casualty this offseason as he simply has not lived up to his contract worth. With the Eagles invested in Jordan Matthews and Nelson Agholor, Cooper could be on the outside looking in.
The Eagles will likely add a receiver this offseason either in the draft or free agency. Matthews is a solid No.1, but Agholor is an iffy No.2. The Eagles need another sure-fire threat running the sidelines for whoever is under center at quarterback. Players like Travis Benjamin, Rishard Matthews and Marvin Jones might cost a little more, but they would be a big upgrade from Cooper. Philadelphia could also look to the draft for players like Braxton Miller or Sterling Shepard, but that would give them a very young group of receivers to work with.
