Wendell Smallwood

The signing of LeGarrette Blount hurt Smallwood's chances for work this year, but he's still in the mix.

Wendell Smallwood in the 'mix' at running back

Philadelphia Eagles head coach Doug Pederson told the media Wendell Smallwood will be in the "mix" at running back in 2017. "Wendell's a young, talented guy we were fortunate to pick up in last year's draft," Pederson said via Philly.com. "He's part of the running back mix. This will be a big offseason for him, coming off the injury. I'm looking forward to this April and getting him back in the building and seeing where he's at physically and going forward."

Fantasy Impact

The Eagles will likely part ways with Ryan Mathews this offseason, per reports, which would leave the door open for Smallwood to compete for the starting job in 2017. Smallwood, who landed on IR with a sprained MCL in Week 14, showed promise in his rookie year. Playing in 13 games, he received 77 carries for 312 yards and a touchdown on the ground while catching only six passes for 55 yards as a receiver, while splitting touches with Mathews, Darren Sproles and at times, Kenjon Barner. If Smallwood could put together a solid offseason, he could ultimately enter 2017 as the starter if the team moves on from Mathews and if they don't bring in a notable name at the position. Jamaal Charles has been linked to the Eagles due to his connection with head coach Doug Pederson from their days together in Kansas City.