Sooner or later, the Eagles will stop signing players. Tuesday is not that day.
The Eagles have come to terms with former Dolphins running back and second overall pick of the 2005 Draft Ronnie Brown on a one-year contract. He will presumably slide in as the number two back behind LeSean McCoy, and provide the team with a veteran presence in a relatively young backfield.
The former Auburn runner has had a pretty solid pro career, despite it being marred by injuries and much of it wasted with the hapless Dolphins. A Pro Bowler in 2008, Brown has rushed for 4,815 total yards and 36 touchdowns in his six-year career, with a very dependable 4.3 yards per carry. He has also tallied 184 receptions for 1,491 yards receiving.
Stay in the game with the latest updates on your beloved Philadelphia sports teams! Sign up here for our All Access Daily newsletter.
Brown likely did not get much attention as a free agent in part due to his history of injuries. His '07 and '09 campaigns were cut short at seven and nine games respectively, and they may have finally taken their toll in 2010. Brown averaged a career low 3.7 YPC while rushing for 916 yards last season.
Of course, that could have something to do with the Dolphins having one of the most inept offenses in the league.
As a backup to Shady McCoy, it's yet another great addition for the Birds. The 6-0, 230 lbs. Brown has the rare combination of size and speed to double as both a power runner and a home run threat. He is also a versatile football player, as demonstrated by his receiving numbers and his participation in Miami's Wildcat scheme.
If something were to happen to McCoy, the only backs on the roster were Eldra Buckley, who is primarily a special teamer, and Dion Lewis, a rookie. Nothing against Lewis, who still has a bright future, but we'll take an experienced back as a little insurance for what is shaping up to be a special season for the Birds.