Darren Sproles

[stomperrob]

Sproles Update: signs franchise tender

Sproles prefers to stay in SD, but says he'll test the market
Kevin Acee
Friday, January 30, 2009

TAMPA, Fla. – The other Chargers running back whose 2009 destination is up in the air reiterated Friday he wanted to remain in San Diego but will explore the free-agent market.

“I'm going to test it,” Darren Sproles said. “It makes sense. But I like where I'm at. I want to stay a Charger.”

Sproles was at the Super Bowl media center Friday doing interview after interview during a tour of radio row. He hired a marketing company recently that brought him here, essentially, to help him become more comfortable in such situations. It's a move that comes, not coincidentally, as his profile rises.

Sproles has stuttered almost his entire life. While he has become better speaking in public, he struggles with shyness and getting his thoughts out in interviews. As a seldom-used back and kick returner in a small market, Sproles was not in much media demand. He and his handlers believe that will change in the coming months and years.

con't...

rest of article: http://www3.signonsandiego.com/stories/ ... /?chargers

[Cowboys 4 life]

Can't hurt. Some team might be desperate and pay big $$. The guy can't handle the load but is a stud at Returns and 3rd downs.

[stomperrob]

Sproles is designated as franchise player; is LT signing next?
By Kevin Acee
Originally published 03:08 p.m., February 18, 2009, updated 11:15 p.m., February 18, 2009

INDIANAPOLIS – The Chargers officially commenced their offseason dealings Wednesday by designating running back and kick returner Darren Sproles as their franchise player.

“We felt uncomfortable with the unknown of him going to the (free agent) market,” General Manager A.J. Smith said.

As the franchise player, Sproles will make $6.62 million in 2009 – that is, unless he and the team work out a multiyear contract.

“We would like to have a long-term deal,” Smith said.

con't...

rest of article: http://www3.signonsandiego.com/stories/ ... /?chargers

[stomperrob]

Update - signs franchise tender:

Sproles signs contract as franchise player
Kevin Acee Tuesday, April 28, 2009

Darren Sproles signed his franchise tender Tuesday, assuring his participation in the Chargers' minicamp this weekend.

"Darren wanted to go into the season knowing everything is cool," said his agent, Gary Wichard. "He wanted to be at minicamp. He's a Charger."

Sproles signing the tender does not preclude a long-term deal getting done this year, but it severely diminishes the likelihood.

Sproles had been working in the team's conditioning session, but he had planned to skip workouts that involved contact until a contract was signed.

He and head coach Norv Turner have discussed how Sproles will be used and preserved in the preseason.

con't...

rest of article: http://www3.signonsandiego.com/stories/ ... /?chargers