DeMarco Murray Is Ready For Another Monster Season
By Ed Benkin
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- DeMarco Murray led the NFL in rushing last season, and believes he still has plenty of tread on his tires.
The Eagles signed Murray in the off-season after they traded LeSean McCoy to Buffalo. Last season, Murray rushed for 1,845 yards on a whopping 392 carries. Some are concerned the heavy workload Murray experienced in Dallas has taken its toll, but the running back says he'll be playing at the same high level this season.
"I'm not worried about it at all," said Murray. "A lot of guys take a lot of reps. A lot of guys get a lot of carries and touches. I've been playing football for a long time. I feel great and it's my job to make sure I am mentally and physically ready to handle whatever they throw at me."
One of the advantages Murray will have this season is the chance to work with two other talented running backs on the Eagles roster. The team signed Ryan Mathews and also has Darren Sproles back for a second season. Murray is more than happy to share the workload with his teammates.
"Those are two great backs," Murray said. "They are two veteran guys who have had a lot of success in this league. I know why I was brought here and I know my role. I've always been one to compete at a high level and there's times when those guys will be in there."
Murray has been limited in practice due to an illness. Many fans are hoping the limited reps in practice won't slow Murray down for the start of the season, but Offensive Coordinator Pat Shurmur isn't worried about Murray's time away from workouts.
"Certainly we have a good feeling about what he's able to do," said Shurmur. "He was out there and the last couple days, he's been able to execute our basic runs and really kind of display a running style that fits what we want to do."
The first preseason game for the Eagles is set for Sunday at the Linc against the Colts. Murray does not know yet if he will see any action. The Eagles will likely be cautious with Murray in the preseason, and Murray doesn't want to see his season end with an injury in August.
"I didn't play in the first couple of (preseason) games in Dallas," Murray said. "I probably got two or three reps in each game. It all depends. Obviously, preseason is important, but you don't want to take a lot of hits."
Workouts will continue for the Eagles on Thursday.
