Eagles Trade Felix Jones for Linebacker

The Eagles traded Felix Jones to Pittsburgh today, an abrupt end after the running back's plummet down the depth chart.

Philadelphia acquired linebacker Adrian Robinson in the deal, but he has appeared in only 11 regular-season games since coming to Pittsburgh as an undrafted rookie from Temple. Perhaps Philly thinks he'd be a nice developmental prospect on the practice squad. This deal isn't significant because of who the Eagles are gaining, but because of who they're letting go.

Jones was drafted in the first round in 2008, and began his rookie season by showing explosion and big play ability.  The former first-rounder just turned 26 years old, but his explosion has been sapped. He had trouble staying healthy throughout his career in Dallas and the Eagles realized he wasn't going to make the team and added Robinson to add depth to the linebacking core.

Last season, Jones ran for a career-low 3.6 yards per carry, and had another season plagued by nagging injuries.  Given a big chance following DeMarco Murray's Week six foot injury, Felix averaged just 3.1 yards per carry as a starter for the Cowboys.

Jones figured to battle Chris Polk and Bryce Brown for time behind LeSean McCoy and help on kickoff returns - but he was never a factor in the race.

Jones had gained just 45 yards on 12 carries (3.75 YPC) through two preseason games for the Eagles and Philadelphia decided it has seen enough of him.

His departure leads to more questions about the team's situation at linebacker. Trent Cole is starting outside with Conor Barwin.  Cole is moving from defensive end to play in the Eagles new 3-4 look.

DeMeco Ryans and Mychal Kendricks are starting on the inside, rookie Jake Knott seems to be a candidate to be the backup and there might be possibilities for Brandon Graham and Clay Matthwes as well. Knott was undrafted who has inside, but he has been impressive so far. Graham, like Cole has also been playing outside, but was a defensive end during his first three pro seasons.