When it came to running the ball in 2014, the Eagles fluctuated between the league average and the best in the league. The ninth-ranked rushing offense in the league was led once again by LeSean McCoy, who notched a plentiful 1,319 yards while becoming the franchise's all-time leading rusher in the process.
Meanwhile, Darren Sproles, acquired in a trade with New Orleans, proved head coach Chip Kelly right with his skill on the ground, carrying the ball for 5.8 yards per carry and scoring a career-high six rushing touchdowns. And soon-to-be restricted free agent Chris Polk was a valuable piece at the goal line, scoring four rushing touchdowns of his own. Matthew Tucker spent the entire season on the practice squad, but had made a strong case for a roster spot with a pair of two-touchdown performances in the preseason to lead the league with four total rushing scores. Kenjon Barner was added late in the preseason a year ago and signed to the practice squad for the final two months of the season. Barner offers ability as a rusher, receiver and return specialist.
NFL.com's Top Free Agent Running Backs
1. DeMarco Murray, Cowboys
2. Mark Ingram, Saints
3. Ryan Mathews, Chargers
4. C.J. Spiller, Bills
5. Frank Gore, 49ers
6. Shane Vereen, Patriots
7. Justin Forsett, Ravens
8. Reggie Bush, Lions
9. Stevan Ridley, Patriots
10. Roy Helu, Washington
The Top Running Back Contracts From 2014 Free Agency
1. Toby Gerhart, Jaguars (3 years, $4.5M guaranteed, $10.5M total)
2. Donald Brown, Chargers (3 years, $4M guaranteed, $10.5M total)
3. Dexter McCluster, Titans (3 years, $4M guaranteed, $9M total)
4. Chris Johnson, Jets (2 years, $4M guaranteed, $8M total)
5. Rashad Jennings, Giants (4 years, $2.98M guaranteed, $10M total)
6. Ben Tate, Browns (2 years, $2.5M guaranteed, $6.2M total)
7. Knowshon Moreno, Dolphins (1 year, $1.25M guaranteed, $3M total)
8. Maurice Jones-Drew, Raiders (3 years, $1.2M guaranteed, $7.5M total)
9. LeGarrette Blount, Steelers (2 years, $950K guaranteed, $3.85M total)
10. Anthony Dixon, Bills (3 years, $750K guaranteed, $3.5M total)
*Contact data is according to Spotrac
