Never doubt Washington Redskins’ owner Dan Snyder when it comes to the free agent market. After word early in the day that the ‘Skins would target prized free agent Julius Peppers, now the word is the team will also target Chargers’ free agent running back Darren Sproles.
Sproles recieved notice from the Chargers last week that he would not be tendered as a restricted free agent, thus putting the big-play threat on the open market. Many NFL insiders consider Sproles the top free agent RB on the market this summer.
Sproles, 26 and in his 4th year in San Diego, compiled 840 yards and 7 touchdowns in a part-time role, sharing carries with future Hall of Fame back LaDainian Tomlinson.
Releasing Sproles immediately leaves the Chargers with an empty backfield after the team decided to also part ways with Tomlinson. Should the Chargers not address running back in free agency, look for the team to invest an early draft pick at the position.
Last week at the NFL combine, new Redskins’ Head Coach Mike Shanahan gave the impression that Clinton Portis would continue to be his team’s featured back. One would have to wonder whether or not that would change should Sproles enter the fold. Sproles is a great return man with expceptional speed and a great pass-catcher out of the backfield, but his size limits him from being an every down back.