The Philadelphia Eagles got a bargain when they gave up a fifth-round pick to the New Orleans Saints in a trade for running back Darren Sproles. Although he was not the primary running back, Sproles still gave the Eagles very good production last season. If the Eagles want to reach the playoffs this season, Sproles does not need similar numbers to a year ago, but he needs to have an impact when he touches the ball.

Sproles was a dual threat out of the backfield, racking up 329 rushing yards on only 57 carries and 387 receiving yards on 40 receptions. These are tremendous averages for a running back. Sproles has a unique ability to make defenders miss in open space and has the quickness to run crisp receiving routes to get open.

The one issue for the Eagles is deciding how to use Sproles. Obviously, Sproles is not the primary running back, but he might not be the backup, which could hamper how many touches he gets. The Eagles replaced LeSean McCoy with DeMarco Murray. The Eagles also added running back Ryan Mathews, who will most likely assume the backup running back role. With Murray and Matthews ahead of Sproles on the depth chart, the Eagles need to be creative in how to use Sproles.

The one good thing about the Eagles is head coach Chip Kelly loves running backs and will do whatever he can to get playmakers the ball. It is obvious Sproles is still a playmaker, so Kelly will find some way to give each running back a fair share of touches. He will use each back in situations that utilizes each individual’s strengths.

Sproles’ value is in his receiving capabilities, as he averaged 9.7 yards per catch last season. With Murray and Mathews being more traditional running threats, Sproles will be on the field to be a receiver. The Eagles will not care about cutting Sproles’ touches because of their other running backs. They only want Sproles to maintain his high yards per catch and yards per carry averages.

Sproles may see a decrease in how often he plays, but it will not be because the Eagles believe his skills have diminished. The Eagles just have better running backs in front of him.