WATCH: Throwback To Duce Staley The Running Back
The Browns officially named a new running backs coach this week, swiping ex-Eagles running back Duce Staley from the Carolina Panthers to fill the position. And while Staley spent several years as a household name during his playing days, not everyone may be familiar with his work.
Coming from South Carolina, Staley began his career in Philadelphia after being selected in the 3rd round of the 1997 draft. He joined a struggling Eagles team that did not have much going their way.
Staley wasted very little time making his mark and beginning a career that would be full of ups and downs.
His rookie season produced hardly anything at all. Staley appeared in 16 games but only compiled a total of 51 yards, both on the ground and through the air.
Year two was Staley's coming out party. In 1998, Staley became the feature back for Philly and he put together a nice season. He appeared in all 16 games barely cracking the 1,000-yard mark with 1,065 yards to go along with 431 yards receiving. He found the endzone six times in '98.
Nov 21, 1999; Philadelphia, PA, USA; FILE PHOTO; Philadelphia Eagles running back Duce Staley (22) carries the ball against the Indianapolis Colts at Veterans Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Lou Capozzola-USA TODAY NETWORK
© Lou Capozzola-USA TODAY Sports
1999 was more of the same for the bruising back as again he eclipsed the 1,000-yard barrier with 1,273 yards on the season.
His first three years in Philadelphia were met with far more losses than wins as the Eagles could not seem to figure it out.
In 2000, Philly had its best year since Staley's arrival finishing with an 11-5 record under head coach Andy Reid. Staley however, was met with his first major injury – a serious Lisfranc fracture cost him most of his season that year.
2001 and 2002 were the final years that Staley reached the peak of his production. In those two years combined he rushed for 1,633 yards and seven touchdowns to go along with 1,167 yards and five more scores through the air.
The remaining years of Staley's career were marred by injury in both Philly and Pittsburgh. Staley ended his playing days with 5,785 yards and 24 touchdowns rushing, with an additional 2,587 yards and 10 touchdowns receiving.
In his limited years, he was a dual-threat back that could beat you in a multitude of ways.
His competitive personality and experience are exactly what this running back room needs. Nick Chubb's injury highlighted a glaring issue on the roster as the Browns hope to get more out of their backup running backs. That will be Staley's job as he takes over for Stump Mitchell.
Cleveland made their first big swing of the 2024 offseason as they work to fill several key offensive coaching roles. Staley brings a fresh perspective that should leave an immediate impact on this running back room.
