Darren Sproles recently announced his retirement from the NFL, but that doesn’t mean he’s done with the NFL.  He was hired by the Eagles as a Personnel Consultant and was recently given the key to the city of Olathe.  He was the third person in the last 18 years to be presented the key to the city of Olathe.

“Recently retired NFL star and Olathe, Kansas, native Darren Sproles was presented the key to the city Monday during a ceremony at Central Elementary School.

Sproles, who retired from the NFL in December after a 15-year career, spoke to students at Central about perseverance and more. Along with the key to the city, Sproles was presented an Olathe strong jersey with his trademark No. 43.”…kmbc.com, February 24th, 2020.

JM:  I guess I should follow the local news more closely, as I missed this story when it happened.  You can watch the short video of the presentation here:

“Darren Sproles technically isn’t a coach. 

The Eagles hired the 15-year veteran this offseason after he retired. The former running back and Pro Bowl returner was given the title of Personnel Consultant, so he’s not technically a member of the Eagles’ coaching staff.”…Dave Zangaro, Yahoo Sports, August 19, 2020

JM:  Personnel Consultant?  If you read on in the article, it sure sounds like he’s coaching…

“Well, he is coaching. So he is doing that,” (Eagles running backs coach Duce) Staley said. “I joke with him all the time. It’s definitely a big help when the younger guys see him in the room.”…Dave Zangaro, Yahoo Sports, August 19, 2020

“Also look at (Jalen) Reagor,” Staley said. “He’s helping the punt returners also. Some of the things no matter if it’s a high ball, long ball, short balls, stuff like that. How to read the punter’s walk down, just valuable information, man, that comes from a vet like him. They’re embracing it, they’re loving it and they’re enjoying it.”…Dave Zangaro, Yahoo Sports, August 19, 2020

JM:  Good to see they are keeping Sproles around to help out and it looks like they are already recognizing his contributions.

“Darren Sproles‘ career may go down as one of the strangest in NFL history.

He played 13 NFL seasons with only 31 starts, averaged 10 total offensive touches per game over an entire season once, and wasn’t voted into a Pro Bowl until his ninth professional season – at the sprightly age of 31 no less. Still, Sproles turned what could have been a gimmicky role as a change of pace ‘mighty mouse’ into a vital offensive piece on three separate playoff-bound offenses, all the while slowly climbing up the league’s all-time all-purpose yards list under everyone’s noses.”…Matty Breisch, Fansided, August 16, 2020

JM:  This was an article talking about whether Sproles’ number should be retired by the Eagles.

“Fun Fact: Only eight of Sproles’ draft classmates are still in the league. Their names? Alex Smith, Thomas Davis, Aaron Rodgers, Mike Nugent, (Frank) Gore, Richie Incognito, Dustin Colquitt, and
Ryan Fitzpatrick.”…Matty Breisch, Fansided, August 16, 2020

JM: I had forgotten Sproles was drafted in the same draft as Alex Smith and Aaron Rodgers.  He lasted a long time in the NFL compared to everyone else in that draft class.

“Sproles is the first player in NFL history with more than 2,200 all-purpose yards in four different seasons (2008–2011) while being selected to three Pro Bowls over his amazing 14-year playing career. He seems destined for the Hall of Fame, thanks to both his skills on the field and his graciousness off it.”…Mike Greger, Heavy.com, February 24, 2020

JM: It would be great for Sproles to get into the Hall of Fame in Canton.  I might have to road trip for that induction ceremony!

“The 36-year-old should be a lock to get into the Pro Football Hall of Fame once his name gets on the ballot. Remember, players must be retired for five years before they receive consideration. Sproles thinks he’ll get in, as does his Eagles teammate Brandon Brooks.

“I feel like I am,” said Sproles. “But it’s not for me to choose.”

“Bro, there is no doubt,” added Brooks.”…Mike Greger, Heavy.com, February 24, 2020

JM:  Stay tuned! Do you think Sproles deserves to be in the NFL Hall of Fame?