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The San Diego Chargers elected to use their non-exclusive franchise tag on Darren Sproles on Wednesday, but will likely attempt to secure a long-term deal with the running back/kick returner.
The Sproles free agency was potentially one of the more intriguing ones because of how it will affect LaDainian Tomlinson.
Sproles was clearly one of the most explosive backs in the NFL, averaging 5.4 yards per carry while catching 29 balls for 342 yards and one touchdown. He is also a unique threat as a punt returner, but due to his 5-6 frame he is clearly not an ideal every down back and like a Reggie Bush, would be better utilized playing off another running back in a hybrid role.
San Diego will attempt to finesse a more fiscally appropriate contract out of Tomlinson while keeping Sproles, setting up a two-back system that maximizes the productivity of both backs.
If the Chargers are unable to get a deal done with Sproles, he will make $6.62 million in 2009.
Although his services as a returner are not factored into this equation, which are undoubtedly very valuable, Sproles was ranked 34th amongst running backs in season FIC and 'deserved' to make $1.9 million. He therefore had a Reina Value of +58%. This metric heavily rewards players that are frequently used, hence the reason why Matt Forte was ranked first at the position and Sproles jad just 61 carries, compared to over 200 for many of his contemporaries.
He clearly was more valuable than that $1.9 million he 'deserved', but at the same time he is unlikely to be as valuable as the other top-six backs in the NFL. I think the sting of San Diego losing Michael Turner for nothing is factoring into the aggressive nature in which they are trying to keep Sproles.
