The Eagles are interested in making a trade for Indianapolis Colts running back Nyheim Hines, according to a report from Pro Football Focus.
Hines, 25-years old, has played in all 72 games in his five-year NFL career. He has been an excellent threat out of the backfield as a receiver at the running back position, posting 235 catches for 1,725 yards and seven touchdowns.
His numbers as a runner as less impressive, totaling 1,205 yards on 300 carries for an average of 4.0 yards per rush. Hines has history with head coach Nick Sirianni from Sirianni’s time in Indianapolis.
While running back is not at the top of the Eagles’ needs — a backup veteran safety tops that list — there is no question he would be a very good addition to the offense.
As good as the Eagles’ offense has been this year they have not really been able to get anything going in the passing game involving their running backs. Miles Sanders has been outstanding this season but the coaching staff doesn’t really use him as a receiver out of the backfield. The increased role expected for Kenny Gainwell hasn’t happened, leaving the team without a running back they seem to trust as a receiver.
Hines would certainly be able to fill that void in a big way. Not only has he been excellent out of the backfield catching the ball, but he is knows Sirianni’s offense, meaning he likely will be able to make an impact right away.
Add in the fact that he has experience returning kicks/punts and he checks off every box the Eagles would want in a running back at the deadline.
Hines is under contract through 2024, with a base salary of $3.3 million this season, $4.4 million next season and $5.1 million in the final year of his deal. The money shouldn’t prevent a deal from getting done.
Considering the Eagles have a legit chance to win the Super Bowl this season it would be wise for Howie Roseman to use future picks (a 5th?) to get Hines, improve the roster and get ready for what should be a deep postseason run.
You can follow Eliot Shorr-Parks on Twitter at @EliotShorrParks or email him at esp@94wip.com!