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Monday, June 12, 2000
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The Eagles' signing of RB Brian Mitchell
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| The Eagles delved into the post-June
1 free-agency market, and signed a player that has been an enemy of the Eagles for the
past decade - KR-RB Brian Mitchell, formerly of NFC East rival Washington. Mitchell
was cut by the Redskins in early June after spending 10 seasons in Washington. Mitchell,
who was named to the Pro Bowl after the 1995 season, averaged 8.3 yards per punt return
and 20.8 yards per kickoff return last season, which were considered subpar numbers for
him. He also caught 31 passes in 1999, but wasn’t much of a factor on offense because
of the presence of FB Larry Centers.
ProFootballWeekly.com asked contributing editor Joel Buchsbaum for his thoughts about
Mitchell.
Q. What is your assessment of Mitchell and what does he bring to the Eagles?
Buchsbaum: "He’s a reliable return specialist, a very powerful runner on
returns. A very sure-handed receiver coming out of the backfield."
Q. Will he contribute more than on just special teams, even though the team
also added Stanley Pritchett in the offseason?
Buchsbaum: "Yes, I think Mitchell will be used as a third-down back, as well.
Pritchett can also play fullback and h-back."
ProFootballWeekly also asked managing editor Keith Schleiden to chime in on the
subject.
Q. Do you like the Eagles’ signing of Brian Mitchell?
Schleiden: "What I like is the fact that Eagles are spending a little money to get
better. As recently as last week, the Eagles had more room under the salary cap than any
other team in the NFL. If you’ve got it, you might as well use it. By shelling out a
little of the money to Mitchell, the Eagles’ return game should see an improvement in
2000. Also, they now have more options in the backfield. Aside from powerful runner Duce
Staley and FBs Stanley Pritchett and Cecil Martin, they have a veteran third-down back to
throw to."
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The Archives
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