Doug Pederson had some very interesting things to tell the media today, but the one that stood out the most for me was regarding the potential inclusion of a Fullback next season.
Pederson: I like the fullback position. I'd like FB to be a four core special teams player. We'll look at Trey Burton there in the spring.
— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) March 23, 2016
The name mentioned, Trey Burton. I have already posted an article on how the Tight-End could well replace Riley Cooper (here) but it seems as if Pederson has other plans for the 24 year old..and who could blame him?
Burton is undoubtedly one of the more versatile guys on the roster. During his 50 game career with the Florida Gators, Burton played as a tight end, running back, fullback and a wide receiver en route to 720 rushing yards, 976 receiving yards and 20 total touchdowns.
So why would Burton tick the boxes of what Pederson looks for in a fullback? Spencer Ware. The Chiefs heavily utilised Ware as a fullback as part of their one-two punch in the absence of Jamaal Charles last season..and it worked wonders. So how does Burton compare to Ware physically?
Trey Burton 6″3
Spencer Ware 5″10
Trey Burton 235 pounds
Spencer Ware 228 pounds
Trey Burton 40-yard dash time: 4.50
Spencer Ware 40-yard dash time: 4.62
Burton’s bigger, heavier and faster than Ware who rushed for 403 yards and 6 touchdowns in 2015. If the Eagles are looking for a big body to lineup in the backfield who has the agility and quickness needed to suit various roles, Burton is one of the most complete packages on the roster.
He has already showed how explosive he can be and is pushing to become more than just a special teams ace, having been previously featured on the NFL All-Rookie team on special teams,he has shown incredible athleticism over the course of his short career in Philadelphia..but under Pederson he may get a chance to thrive in a position he knows all too well.
A big catch in the thanksgiving loss to the Lions and two touchdowns against the Packers in pre-season is impressive, but this offseason has seen huge extensions for both Zach Ertz and Brent Celek..meaning Burton’s chance of moving up the depth chart without an injury to one of the two starters is slim to none.
By moving to fullback, he would not only get a chance to thrive under Pederson who favors 3-TE formations, but be in a position where he can impact the game in a multitude of different ways.
Burton is exceedingly talented, has played in numerous positions throughout his career and is built perfectly to play in the slot or out of the backfield..the question is, will Pederson give him a shot?
