2010 free-agent preview: Running backs, fullbacks

 

Darren Sproles is a unique running back, and he’s in a unique circumstance. Last year, he was designated the Chargers’ franchise player and earned $6.6 million for being a dynamic change-of-pace option and accomplished return man. This year, even though he’s a restricted free agent because of the labor situation, it looks like he’ll reach the open market.

 

To lock up Sproles, the Chargers would have to tender him a one-year contract for $7.27 million—something they apparently aren’t willing to do (though they would like to sign him to a long-term deal).

 

Coming off a season in which he put up 840 yards from scrimmage and seven touchdowns, Sproles (5-6, 185) will be the most desirable back on the market. He could make another team in need of a complementary backfield spark very happy.

 

"He creates a mismatches, similar to the way Antonio Gates does," Chargers defensive end Luis Castillo said. "It’s hard to line up a linebacker or a defensive end on him and expect the defender to stay close. His height also makes him incredibly hard to see when he’s coming out of the backfield, especially on inside runs."

 

The Chargers have already parted ways with their all-time leading rusher, LaDainian Tomlinson, who was released Monday. A day later, the Eagles cut their feature back, Brian Westbrook. Those are two big names who have put up some great numbers in the past, but what do they have left to contribute in the short term?

 

Tomlinson and Westbrook, who both will turn 31 before the season, come with plenty of mileage. Westbrook has the more checkered injury history—most recently an ankle—while Tomlinson has averaged 379 touches over his nine seasons.

 

A team is more likely to take a chance on Tomlinson—a la how Emmitt Smith and Edgerrin James helped the Cardinals in the past.

 

"Early in the season, I think he was slowed down a bit by the injuries," Raiders linebacker Kirk Morrison said. "But then down the stretch, you could see him get his legs back, his burst back, more like the L.T. of old."

 

Vikings backup Chester Taylor is in an advantageous position. Like Tomlinson and Westbrook, he’s 30. But his age doesn’t matter as much because he has taken on a heavy load in only one season: 2006 in Minnesota.

 

Taylor also comes with eight years of experience on mostly winning teams, making him a worthy option for clubs that like to have a trusty vet to complement a promising youngster. His role—and how extensive he is used—depends on where he lands.

 

"Some teams might think of him as a good third-down back while some teams may see him as a lot more," an NFC team scout said.

 

Le’Ron McClain and Leonard Weaver—the fullbacks who represented the AFC and NFC in the Pro Bowl—are the most intriguing free agents at a passé position. McClain has been both a strong lead blocker and mauling runner for Baltimore while the versatile Weaver blocked, ran and caught passes en route to All-Pro honors in Philadelphia last season.

 

McClain, a restricted free agent, will remain with Ravens. Weaver, whom the Eagles signed to a one-year deal in the open market last year, is also restricted in the current labor atmosphere. He probably deserves a better contract with long-term consideration, but Philadelphia has the advantage of just tendering him for 2010.

 

Weaver has plenty of value because of his versatility, and the Eagles will want to keep him in the wake of letting Westbrook go.