Miami Dolphins trade Jay Ajayi to the Philadelphia Eagles

The NFL trade deadline has been very active so far. The Miami Dolphins and Philadelphia Eagles are the last two teams to make a deal.

The Philadelphia Eagles have soldified their running game with a trade. They have reportedly agreed to acquire Miami Dolphins’ running back Jay Ajayi. According to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network the Dolphins will receiver a fourth round pick in return.

Philadelphia has Super Bowl aspirations after an impressive start. Their young quarterback, Carson Wentz, is putting up an MVP-caliber performance. They have a dynamic offense. However, they’re missing a lead running back. They’ve solved that problem by acquiring Ajayi.

Ajayi is struggling this season after an impressive 2016 campaign. Last season he finished with 1272 yards and eight touchdowns in only his second season. He produced those numbers despite only playing in 15 games and starting 12. Of those 12 games, three went for over 200 yards. There is no denying Ajayi’s talent.

Many were predicting a breakout season from the talented Boise State product. So far, 2017 has not been as kind.  The entire Miami Dolphins offense has struggled, especially Ajayi. Through seven games he’s totaled only 465 yards and has yet to find the end zone. He is averaging only 3.4 yards per carry.

Now with the Eagles, Ajayi will look to replicate his 2016 form. Philadelphia is missing their starting left tackle but should have enough talent up front to open up holes for Ajayi. With the threat of Wentz both through the air and on the ground, Ajayi could be poised for a huge second half.

Philadelphia ranks fourth in the league in total rushing yards. They’re putting up numbers despite relying on a trio of LeGarrette Blount, Wendell Smallwood and Corey Clement. Ajayi can come in and at least give them consistency on first and second down.

Philadelphia welcomes the Denver Broncos to Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday for their Week 9 matchup. With a mid-week trade, it’s hard to see Ajayi playing a major role, but this is a move for the remainder of the season than any single week.

Next: NFL Power Rankings

The Eagles already looked like the class of the NFC. This trade sets them up for a deep playoff run while giving up very little.