NFL Fantasy Football Profile: DeMarco Murray of Philadelphia Eagles
By Erik Lambert
May 28, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles running back DeMarco Murray (29) talks with the media during OTA
He is 27-years old, in his prime and stands as the reigning rushing champion in pro football. So it’s no surprise DeMarco Murray was one of the top NFL fantasy football producers in 2014. Normally that would be instant grounds for owners to seek him out in the 1st round of drafts at the drop of a hat. However, Murray has become somewhat of a unique case in that he’s the rushing champion who is no longer playing for the team he did it for, having left the Dallas Cowboys to sign with the Philadelphia Eagles.
New MythBusters on SI: Can any back excel behind Dallas' line, or will the Cowboys miss DeMarco Murray? http://t.co/CiPFC85IqT
— Doug Farrar ✍ (@NFL_DougFarrar) July 2, 2015
2014 Production:
- 1,845 yards rushing
- 416 yards receiving
- 13 touchdowns
- 6 fumbles
- 294.10 fantasy points
Murray is a tough, strong and determined runner who should remain productive in 2015. Still, a number of reasons have surfaced to give fantasy owners pause about making him an early draft pick.
First and foremost is the offensive lines. Dallas has arguably the best front in the NFL. All five starters finished with a positive run block rating according to Pro Football Focus. That may have been a big reason why they felt so calm about letting Murray leave in the first place. He meanwhile comes to an Eagles team that just released its best run blocker in guard Evan Mathis.
Then there is scheme fit. Murray is used to a classic offense under Jason Garrett running from I-formations and such. Chip Kelly is known better for his spread-type schemes in Philadelphia, which features lots of runs out of the shotgun formation. Though Murray has done that, it’s not his typical strength. Besides, the Eagles passed the ball a lot more than the Cowboys did last season, and that was with Mark Sanchez at quarterback most of the season. How much will that change with the more capable Sam Bradford?
Lastly is the crowded backfield. In Dallas it was pretty much Murray and a bunch of scrubs. The Eagles also have Ryan Mathews and Darren Sproles on the roster who will likely see action, and as a byproduct steal touches away from Murray. So while he has fantasy value, there are too many factors in play to sustain belief he’ll be the same golden goose he was in 2014.