DeMarco Murray will not practice today and continues a worrisome trend regarding the running back's inconsistent practice routine.
DeMarco Murray sitting another one out: pic.twitter.com/Mx8tgRkhoP
— Jimmy Kempski (@JimmyKempski) August 13, 2015
The 27-year-old has previously been held out of practice for lack of hydration and illness, but even when he's been "healthy," he's been in-and-out of first team drills. During Wednesday's practice, Murray was seen working with the trainer before taking limited reps with the first team.
After the practice, reporters surrounded Murray asking about his spotty workload.
His answers are left to individual interpretation, but the former Cowboy claims that his work with the trainer was NOT due to injury.
"I was just doing some things to get different parts of my body activated and get a little bit more strength in certain areas," Murray said.
This could be anything from cramps, to a bothersome hamstring. It is possible that Murray's 392 carries from last season could still be taking its toll, which would explain his limited practice reps.
"I think [Kelly] watches enough film and sees me out here to know what I am working on, and some things I need to work on constantly. Obviously, there are some things I am more comfortable doing. I think the whole coaching staff, they have a good grasp on how to use certain players and know what to throw at them."
Perhaps Kelly knows what he has in Murray, and is using that as an excuse to keep his star running back fresh. However, with the talented running back committee the Eagles have assembled, Murray won't be expected to carry the same workload he did in Dallas last season.
Of course, Murray could be lying about not being injured. It wouldn't be the first time an athlete has lied about his health (I'm looking at you, Chase Utley).
Regardless, it would be encouraging to see the $42 million running back on the field consistently. Until he is, people will continue to question, and worry.
