When the Eagles and Dolphins were discussing their earlier offseason swap, it would make sense if Miami's Mike Tannenbaum had inquired about Ryan Mathews. http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap30...lennon-to-the-jets-six-trades-wed-like-to-see
He's got the ability to be a starting running back in the league, the problem is he has only ever played one full season. But I guess it depends on what we are looking for: a bell cow that is going to get 20+ touches a game; or a one-two punch, where we have two guys that get around 15 touches a game each. If it's the former, then Ryan Mathews is not a guy we should be looking at. However, if it's the latter then he could be a fair addition at the right price. He showed last season in the Eagles' committee that he can make plays in a reduced role in the running and passing game. He had Over 500 rushing yards and 6 TDs at 5.1 yards per carry which is a decent return for the number two guy on the depth chart. If he formed a one-two punch with Ajayi (or another running back), then that type of role might suit him better than being the bell cow because it puts less wear and tear on his body. Granted he still missed three games last season, but ultimately he showed some of that play making ability which he showed in 2011 and 2013 with the Chargers. If we got that Ryan Mathews, we would have a good player. Problem is, if we got the 2012 or 2014 Ryan Mathews, we would have a liability on our hands. I guess that's a risk you either take or turn away from. In the end it depends on what we are looking for, and at the right price (eg a sixth or seventh), I think adding Mathews could be a good move. But I think we'll look towards the draft or perhaps adding Arian Foster if he is healthy enough, I think I'd rather have him than Mathews.
