Eagles sign Felix Jones to one-year deal, release Marvin McNutt
By Eliot Shorr-Parks, NJ.com South Jersey Newspapers
on May 14, 2013 at 8:29 AM, updated May 14, 2013 at 12:47 PM
While it might amount to nothing more than an extended tryout, the latest Eagles signing could potentially be a very intriguing one.
The Eagles have reached a one-year agreement with former Dallas Cowboys running back Felix Jones. Jones, who turned 26 last week, had 111 carries for 402 yards and three touchdowns last year with the Cowboys.
To make room for Jones, the team released wide receiver Marvin McNutt. Jones is with the team and practicing with them as they continue OTA's.
Jones averages close to 5.0-yards per carry throughout his career and is a very capable return man- an area the Eagles could certainly improve. Jones averages 24.0 yards per kickoff return throughout his career. While he only has one touchdown, he has longs of 69 yards and 41 yards.
How big of an impact Jones can have on the Eagles will depend on his health- something that has been a problem for him throughout his career. Jones has played in 16 games just twice in five years. If healthy, however, Jones could be a potential steal for Chip Kelly and an Eagles offense that seems to be a perfect fit for the former Arkansas Razorback.
One thing Kelly is expected to do in his offense is get the Eagles running backs into space with the ball. Like LeSean McCoy, Jones is capable of taking it to the house anytime he touches the ball, especially in open space. Jones has had a receiving touchdown of 27 yards or more every season since his rookie year, and a rushing touchdown of 40 yards or more every year but last season.
Jones will have to come into Eagles camp and compete for a job. The team has a crowded backfield with McCoy, Bryce Brown and Chris Polk all returning from last year's roster. If healthy and back to his old form, however, it's hard to imagine the Eagles won't find a way to keep Jones on the roster.
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