Philadelphia Eagles running back Jay Ajayi’s status remains uncertain for this Sunday’s game against the Denver Broncos. Ajayi joined the Eagles via a trade with the Miami Dolphins prior to the trading deadline.
Head coach Doug Pederson noted that no decision has been made on Ajayi’s availability during Friday’s press conference. Pederson still has solid depth at the running back position with LeGarrette Blount leading the running game for possibly one week while Ajayi learns the playbook.
Ajayi registered 138 carries for 465 yards and no touchdowns in seven games for the Dolphins before the trade. He led Miami with 1,272 yards and eight touchdowns in 15 games during the 2016 season. Ajayi struggled in an offense missing last year’s starting quarterback Ryan Tannehill. The third-year running back gets a new opportunity with rising quarterback Carson Wentz leading the 7-1 Eagles.
The Eagles traded for Ajayi to give the team another playmaker in the ground game down the stretch. His footwork and ability to change speeds at will give him a versatility the Eagles believe they needed heading into the backend of the season. Ajayi should serve as the perfect complement to Blount's hard, downhill style.
If Ajayi does not play this weekend, he will have two weeks to pick up the Eagles’ system. Philadelphia will return to face the Dallas Cowboys on November 19, followed a week later by the Chicago Bears.
On the bright side for the Eagles, Pederson also noted that tight end Zach Ertz will be active this weekend. He appeared on the team’s injury list with a hamstring issue.
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