A new era has begun for the Philadelphia Eagles as under new leadership, they’re ready to bounce back in 2016. Expect to see running back Ryan Mathews leading the charge.
The Philadelphia Eagles mean business, as they want to start a another era of being a contender in the NFL. It won’t be easy, but so far this offseason, they’ve made some terrific changes to rid themselves of the disappointment over the past few years and focus on making some new memories.
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The offense of the Eagles has undergone some dramatic changes this offseason as they’ll do their best to return to a more balanced and traditional way of keeping those chains moving. Running back Ryan Mathews enters his six season in the NFL and second year with the Eagles.
With the departure of running back DeMarco Murray via free agency, Mathews is now the best option the Eagles have as starter. Not only is he anxious to accept the majority of reps this upcoming season but all signs point that he will lead the charge of their new-look offense.
Gone are the days of a complicated high-octane offense that tried to rush as many plays possible when they had the football in their possession. Now, the Eagles will return to their roots of being a ground-and-pound offense led by Mathews.
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At 28-years-old, Mathews doesn’t look like he’s slowing down anytime soon as he’s entering some of the best years of his career.
As the Eagles will be patient with the development of quarterback Carson Wentz, their running game will be a primary focus this upcoming season.
Expect to see Mathews surprise many in 2016 as he’s looking to silence his critics that believes his best days are behind him due to his lingering issues with injuries.
So far this offseason, Mathews has been working hard in making sure to have the right mentality and focus on staying healthy.
During organized team activities and mandatory mini-camp, Mathews has looked sharp and ready to do his part in bringing the Eagles back into being contenders again in the NFC East.
Head coach Doug Pederson has always been an advocate of a rush-oriented kind of offense since it opens up everything else, especially the passing game.
With an improved offensive line, the Eagles’ offense will make a nice return to being efficient and not resorting to gimmicks or college football-like kind of plays to win football games. It’ll feature true smash-mouth football that will test even the best defenses coming their way.
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Overall, Mathews will make his presence known early and often in 2016. The Eagles clearly believe in everything he brings to the table since this will be the year that proves new leadership, a clear focus and top execution will be key drivers in a bounce-back season. Considering the Eagles were 7-9 last year, they’re not too far away from winning close games thanks to winning the time of possession battle mostly in part to a strong running game. That could be the difference in not only winning the division but finally making a return to the postseason.