The Bell Tolls for Philly?
New Orleans Saints’ restricted free agent running back Mike Bell will reportedly visit Philadelphia on Tuesday to discuss a potential deal. With Brian Westbrook being released a couple of weeks ago the Eagles are in the market for a veteran running back to back up and/or compliment second year back LeSean McCoy who is widely considered the starter heading into spring workouts.
I have been an advocate of the Eagles taking a look at signing Pierre Thomas away from the Saints, but, Bell would be a nice addition as well. While I think Thomas is a slightly better player and fit for the Eagles offense Bell would give them a big back who can run between the tackles that would compliment McCoy nicely.
My only reservations with Bell are he does not bring a lot to the passing game and Andy Reid loves versatile backs who can catch the ball out of the backfield. He also has a history of injuries that have limited him to 37 games in his four pro seasons. My sense is that the Eagles are talking to Bell as opposed to Thomas is because the Saints put the lowest tender on him and will demand less money than Thomas will.
Thomas is the better all around back, can catch the ball out of the backfield, and has a better average per carry, but, will likely command more money and I think would cost the Eagles a third round pick to sign him. For Thomas’ part he is probably more interested in staying in New Orleans rather than go to Philly where he knows he would likely see fewer carries behind McCoy then he gets now in New Orleans.
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