We have another update on the Eagles search for a veteran running back.
According to a report from the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Eagles have made a contract offer to Atlanta Falcons running back Devonta Freeman, who is also weighing an offer from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The report also states the Eagles have interest in LeSean McCoy but have not yet made the franchise's all-time leading rusher an offer.
It is easy to see why the Eagles would, apparently, prefer Freeman over McCoy.
Freeman has been relatively healthy throughout his career, playing 14 games last season for the Atlanta Falcons, and playing at least 14 games in five of his six seasons. Freeman is arguably the best pass catcher of the two, a major bonus in the Eagles' offense, as he caught 59 passes for 410 yards last season on 70 targets, averaging 6.9 yards-per-catch and scoring four touchdowns. His yards-per-carry were a career-low last season, at just 3.6, which is a bit of a red flag, but he is big enough to be the team's between-the-tackle runner if needed.
Freeman also seems to be the best fit with Miles Sanders and Boston Scott, as he brings a nice combination of versatility and experience, while also having the potential to be the top-back if needed due to injury.
The question seems to be the money and if Freeman would rather come to Philadelphia instead of Tampa Bay. The Eagles have enough cap space to sign Freeman if they want, with $24 million available, but a recent report stated they might be unwilling to go up to the $4 million Freeman reportedly wants. The Eagles need to hold onto as much cap space as possible, as they need money to roll over into next offseason, when they are projected to be $50 million over the cap.
Still, there is no denying the Eagles need a veteran running back, and Freeman is the best option on the market.
If Freeman decides to play elsewhere, it seems the Eagles will make a move to sign McCoy.
You can follow Eliot Shorr-Parks on Twitter at @EliotShorrParks or email him at esp@94wip.com!
