Sleeper Watch

Prior to last season, it seemed as if Correll Buckhalter might be able to displace Duce Staley as Philadelphia’s starting running back. Any possibility of that happening in 2002 was derailed when Buckhalter went down for the season with a torn anterior cruciate ligament, however. Now, the former Nebraska standout is healthy again and ready to assume a greater role in the Eagles’ offense. Staley’s holdout for a better contract just might give him the opportunity.

Philadelphia head coach Andy Reid is impressed by Buckhalter’s skills and work ethic. Meanwhile, Staley has taken up residence in Reid’s doghouse by missing a mandatory team meeting and the beginning of training camp. In his last healthy season, Buckhalter ran for 4.5 yards per carry (586 yards total) in part-time duty; Staley hasn’t topped 3.8 y/c in the last two seasons. Some observers also feel that Buckhalter’s bruising running style would better complement Brian Westbrook’s quickness than Staley.

Whether Buckhalter or Staley is the better overall player is debatable; Staley’s contributions to Philadelphia’s offense certainly shouldn’t be overlooked. This question, however, might be moot if Staley doesn’t show up at training camp soon…

It’s definitely time for Staley owners to start worrying. It’s also time to pick up Buckhalter, who could be one of this season’s greatest bargains if he does wind up starting.