The Eagles have signed running back LeGarrette Blount, according to a team announcement. It’s a one-year deal with a maximum value of $2.8MM, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL.com (on Twitter). The pact calls for $1.25MM in base pay with up to $1.55MM in incentives, Josina Anderson of ESPN.com tweets.
[RELATED: Eagles Likely To Cut RB Ryan Mathews]
Last week, the Patriots used a May 9 tender on free agent running back, a little-known clause that could now impact the 2018 compensatory pick formula for the Eagles and Pats. However, it was said that teams with interest in Blount were looking into ways to circumvent the formula, so it’s possible that the Eagles will not give up much in that area.
The last compensatory pick is currently tied to a $2.05MM annual salary, so the Eagles will only sacrifice a 2018 comp selection if Blount earns more than that total. With $1.55MM of Blount’s deal is tied to performance, the Eagles could come away from this deal without hurting next year’s draft.
The Giants and Lions were known to have interest in Blount for a while, but the Eagles swooped in to sign the power back. As we explained earlier this month, the Eagles were a logical landing spot for Blount since Ryan Mathews could be let go this summer. Indeed, on Wednesday, Adam Schefter of ESPN.com reported that Mathews is expected to be released once he’s fully healthy. By cutting him, the Eagles will save $4MM in 2017 while carrying just $1MM in dead money. With Mathews gone, Blount and Darren Sproles will get most of the carries while Wendell Smallwood assumes the role of No. 3 RB.
The seven-year veteran is coming off one of the most productive seasons of his career, having amassed career highs in carries (299), yards (1,161) and touchdowns (an NFL-leading 18). Still, the Patriots would only go so far to re-sign Blount this offseason. They’re losing the bruising back, but they now have an impressive bunch at RB with offseason additions Mike Gillislee and Rex Burkhead joining holdovers James White, Dion Lewis, Brandon Bolden, and D.J. Foster.
The Cardinals and Giants both made offers to Blount before he signed with Philly, according to Rapoport.
Photo via Pro Football Rumors on Instagram.
Wait. I thought this was going to totally screw Blount according to all the football professors???
The style of player they needed, just didn’t want his guy. :/
Uh oh
Looks like it will be Matt Asiata in detroit. Surprised by the signing but like it for the eagles.
I wouldn’t be too sure
All the fans called in wanting a big running back crying for one all I hear on the freaking radio… now they’re all “well I wish it was someone else you can’t give him 10-13 carries can u?”
Worst fans ever. And unfortunately I enjoy listening to sports talk radio, so I have to deal with it.
Who’s crying?
You obviously don’t listen to 94.1 or 97.5
Or you’re deaf.