Eagles Bringing Darren Sproles Back Creates Extremely Crowded Backfield

The Eagles recently announced they re-signed Darren Sproles to a one-year deal, as the veteran running back returns to Philly for his 14th NFL season.

With the addition of Sproles, Philadelphia's running backs room is suddenly extremely crowded with bodies who are fighting for a roster spot, as there are now 11 guys vying for touches at the position.

With the current state of the Eagles' running backs, it's likely their top two leading rushers from last season will see drastically reduced roles, and may not even make the 53-man roster.

Josh Adams and Wendell Smallwood led the team last year with 511 and 364 rushing yards, respectively. Smallwood has been on the roster for three years now and the coaching staff has never trusted him to be the lead back. Adams rose quickly as an undrafted rookie last year, but the team invested in the position this offseason.

At most, the team will open the season with five running backs, four spots of which are already determined. Miles Sanders was a second-round pick this year and is expected to be the feature back. Jordan Howard was acquired from the Bears and is a proven back who complements Sanders well. Corey Clement, who blew up in the Super Bowl two seasons ago, was hurt all last year and will get a chance to return to form this season.

The Philly coaching staff talks highly of Boston Scott every chance they get, name dropping him as the guy who could replace Sproles' role before they re-signed the veteran scat back. Scott is built in the same mold as Sproles and was effective in the kick return game late last year, so perhaps he will earn a roster spot as well.

I'd guess the Birds brought Sproles back not only for his skillset, but to allow Scott to learn from the veteran. Don't be surprised if these five backs are on the roster Week 1 against Washington.