Eagles RB Bryce Brown's Dogs Seized in Suspected Dog Fighting Operation

The Philadelphia Eagles are possibly dealing with a dog-fighting fiasco, as Bryce Brown's dogs have been taken on suspicion of dog fighting.

According to Christena T. O’Brien of the Leader-Telegram, 27 dogs were seized on May 21 after the kennel that bred the animals fell under suspicion of dog-fighting. 

Brown's pit bull and her seven puppies were eventually returned to the owner, though the remaining 19 dogs are still in the custody of the Eau Claire County Humane Association.

The report states that the running back "purchased Eilis in 2010, and the dog has been a pet, according to an affidavit. He sent her to Northland Pits for stud services in February. After a week, she was returned to Brown in Wichita, Kansas."

Brown has not been charged with any crime, but others associated with the incident have already been arrested. As Amy Worden of the Philadelphia Inquirer reported:

"

The owner of Northland Pits, Joseph A. Sudbrink was arrested and charged with mistreating animals,, running a breeding kennel without a license. Author ties say a criminal investigation is continuing, the newspaper said...A humane officer, BeKah Weitz, told the court she saw scarring on the dogs and believed the kennel operators were fighting the dogs.

"

Brown might not be guilty of anything more than giving his dogs to the wrong people, or he might have known the whole time, but this is certain to be a public relations issue for the Eagles.

Philadelphia was the team that gave Michael Vick a second chance in the NFL after spending 23 months in prison for dog fighting. At the time, there were plenty of animal rights activists that responded negatively to the quarterback's return to the league. 

Brown was a little-known seventh-round draft pick throughout much of his rookie season with the Eagles; however, he burst onto the scene when starting running back LeSean McCoy was forced to miss a handful of games with an injury.

In his first two starts, the running back combined for 347 yards and four touchdowns. His pure skill as a runner is certain to give him a major role with the squad in the upcoming season.

Follow Rob Goldberg on Twitter for the latest updates in sports.