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It’s only been three days, but the 2014 NFL Free Agency has been one of the most newsworthy free agency periods I can remember. The Denver Broncos are going all-in with the defensive signings, the New England Patriots did the unthinkable and signed Darrelle Revis and Eric Decker is with the New York Jets.
The New Orleans Saints were mostly selling in the early going. They cut some key defensive players and veteran receiver Lance Moore. There were also rumors of the team cutting two running backs. One of them signed a two-year extension with the team while the other was traded.
Darren Sproles will play, at least, the next three seasons in the City of Brotherly Love. After hearing about the trade rumors, Sproles tweeted that he would rather be cut. Then, the news broke that the Philadelphia Eagles acquired the versatile Sproles for only a fifth-round pick. Sproles then signed a two-year extension through the 2016 season.
Sproles leaving New Orleans helps out Thomas, Mark Ingram and even Khiry Robinson in the running game. It also helps out the Saints receivers. In three seasons, Sproles caught 232 passes for 1,981 yards and 16 touchdowns. Those stats will be spread around to Marques Colston, Jimmy Graham and Kenny Stills.
As far as the Eagles are concerned, Nick Foles‘ fantasy value continues to get higher. He should be ranked close to the top five with his new toy. Already with a great receiving core in DeSean Jackson, Riley Cooper, Brent Celek, Zach Ertz and the returning Jeremy Maclin, Sproles is just another weapon defenses will have to cover.
LeSean McCoy‘s value takes a little hit, though. While reports state that his usage in the running game will not decrease, his impact in the passing game will decline. He had 52 catches for 529 yards in 2013. Sproles will fill in for McCoy when he needs rest and steal a goal-line carry here and there.
In the end, McCoy is still a top-three running back. Thomas may crack the top 20 sometime during the season. As for Sproles, he is still a great flex option, but his value decreases in standard 10-team leagues. He won’t see nearly the same amount of playing time he did in New Orleans, but he will make the most of every opportunity.
If you want Sproles, select him as a low-end RB2 or flex in the middle rounds.
Bill Pivetz is a fantasy sports writer for Rant Sports. Follow him on Twitter @Mr_Piv1127.
