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The Philadelphia Eagles signed running back Jay Ajayi on Friday after Jordan Howard and Darren Sproles both suffered injuries.
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Ajayi’s signing wasn’t expected to be for more than a week to week basis, but according to Ian Rapoport, the running back could be with the Eagles next season as well.
Interesting tidbit to #Eagles RB Jay Ajayi’s contract with his new team. It includes a right of first refusal for the team during the 2020 offseason, source said. That means Philly can match any offer Ajayi receives.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 18, 2019
According to Rapoport, the structure is similar to that of a restricted free agent, and it would make it easier for the Eagles to bring back Ajayi for another season if another team shows interest in the offseason.
Ajayi could have a role with the Eagles next season if the team moves on from Darren Sproles and Corey Clement.
Sproles is on injured reserve with a torn hip flexor, and his career could be over. Jordan Howard has a shoulder injury that kept him out of Sunday’s loss to the New England Patriots and will be a free agent after this season.
The final six weeks of the season are essentially an audition for Ajayi with the Eagles and other teams who’ll likely have a need for the running back position.