3 NFL contenders that should sign DeMarco Murray
DeMarco Murray is still a free agent, but he’s looking to sign with a team sooner rather than later.
Veteran running back DeMarco Murray was a recent guest on Adam Schefter’s podcast, and he told the ESPN NFL insider that he hopes to sign with a team before training camp begins.
"“I’ve had a lot of discussions with four or five teams that I feel will be a great fit for me,” Murray said. “It’s all about being transparent and, for me, I’m not looking to lead the league in rushing yards. Obviously I would work and do everything to give me the opportunity to do that, but it’s all about having an opportunity to get to the playoffs and have an opportunity to win a championship.”"
Murray was released by the Tennessee Titans earlier this offseason, after spending two seasons with the team. In his first year with the organization, Murray led the AFC in rushing with 1,287 yards, the second most in his career.
About a month ago, the New Orleans Saints had interest in Murray, but the 30-year old back turned downed the opportunity to workout for the Saints. Other teams that have shown interest in him are the Detroit Lions, Miami Dolphins and Seattle Seahawks.
The seven-year pro is coming off of a year in which he rushed for a career low 659 yards and scored six touchdowns. Despite playing in 15 games, he was hampered with hamstring and ankle injuries the entire season.
Murray’s demands are clear. He wants to play for a contender and would be willing to not be the lead guy. With that being said, it makes sense why he didn’t sign with teams like the Lions, Dolphins or Seahawks. Here are three contenders that should consider signing Murray.
3. Green Bay Packers
The Green Bay Packers have a plethora of running backs, but one thing they don’t have is a veteran running back on the depth chart.
Ty Montgomery is 25 years old and the oldest back on the current roster. Even though he is the oldest, he has the least amount of experience. The former wide receiver, officially became a running back just a couple of years ago when injuries piled up for the Packers.
The roster also includes three second-year pros in Aaron Jones, Jamaal Williams and Devante Mays. Jones was recently suspended by the NFL for the first two games of the 2018 regular season, for violating the league’s substance abuse policy.
With the recent departure of veteran wideout Jordy Nelson, the Packers still have a void at wide receiver and should strongly consider moving Montgomery back to his natural position. This is a realistic move, especially if injuries begin to occur.
Moving Montgomery and a suspended Jones leaves room for Murray to join the Packers. He would provide veteran leadership, would be a great role model for the young backs and play a role in catching passes out of the backfield.
The Packers wouldn’t need Murray to be their lead back and he has a legit chance at competing for a title, checking all of Murray’s boxes.