The Eagles have spent most of their offseason thus far addressing the defensive side of the ball. And with eight picks in the draft later this week, it is expected they look to lend Carson Wentz a little more help by taking at least one wide receiver.
The Birds' decision to stand pat thus far on offense, particularly at running back and wide receiver, kind of speaks volumes. It implies that they really were unimpressed with the available options and are comfortable rolling the dice with rookies, or with later free agency plays which can provide much more value.
There is a value play reportedly available as we approach the NFL Draft, at a position the Eagles are very much looking for help at.
- MORE ON THE EAGLES
- What they're saying: Eagles draft rumors, Wentz' sway in front office and Roseman's rank among NFL GMs
- Eagles C Jason Kelce announces that he will return for 2020 season
- Podcast: What to make of draft analysts projecting a LB to the Eagles in Round 1
As a matter of form, most teams that have a speedy, shifty back like Sanders also like to have a power back who can run for short yardage and downhill. Last year, the Eagles had that in Jordan Howard. Howard, however, signed with the Dolphins a few weeks ago, leaving the role open for a new player.
Fournette, 25, fits the profile, and could perhaps benefit from being in a tandem instead of being called upon as the featured back like he was in Jacksonville. Fournette averaged around 22 touches per game, and perhaps as a result, missed 12 games over three NFL seasons. The Jags are clearly ready to move on, which makes it a buyers market.
If Fournette is bound to be cut anyway, the Eagles may be willing to part with a late round pick, or even a future pick to acquire the still young 230-pound back.
He is certainly an interesting option compared to others still available on the market like DeVonta Freeman, Carlos Hyde or Lamar Miller, who would likely seek a higher salary and have a lot more on the odometer than Fournette. He is slated to earn $4.2 million on the last year of his rookie deal. The Jaguars have until May 4 to exercise Fournette's fifth year option, which would give the team acquiring him an added bonus year of control.
It could be a Howie Roseman-like acquisition. It will be interesting to see if they have any kind of interest in the former first-round pick.
PHILLYRANK: The Top 10 pro athletes in Philadelphia right now
Follow Evan on Twitter:@evan_macy
Like us on Facebook: PhillyVoice Sports