By John Sarianides

The Philadelphia Eagles announced this morning that they have signed free agent running back LeGarrette Blount to a one year, $2.8 million dollar contract. Eagles General Manager Howie Roseman was able to step around the May 9th tender placed on Blount by the Patriots by offering him more money than the max of $2.1 million he would have earned from them had he signed after July 22nd.

With Blount’s signing, the Eagles will more than likely part ways with Ryan Mathews who is scheduled to earn $4 million dollars in 2017. The oft-injured Mathews is a better fit in Philly’s offense than Blount but he can’t stay healthy.

In Philadelphia, Blount will join a backfield that boasts Darren Sproles, Wendell Smallwood and Donnell Pumphrey. All three backs are on the smaller side so Philadelphia needed a lead back that could carry the load in short yardage and goal line situations and salt the game away in four minute situations.

Blount rushed for 1,161 yards and 18 touchdowns last season as the Patriots primary ball carrier. He is used to being a part of a committee approach in New England so splitting carries in a time share shouldn’t be a problem for him in Philadelphia.

Signing Blount to a one year deal makes sense for the Eagles. If he plays well, then the Eagles will benefit from it. If he doesn’t, then they can walk away from him after 2017. It is yet another low risk signing for Roseman in what has been a productive off-season for the Eagles.