DeMarco Murray Reportedly Met with Chip Kelly to Discuss Role for Rest of Season

Philadelphia Eagles running back DeMarco Murray reportedly had a long meeting with head coach Chip Kelly earlier this week and wasn't given any guarantees he'd have a bigger role moving forward.

Adam Caplan of ESPN reported on the meeting prior to the Eagles' Week 14 contest against the Buffalo Bills Sunday.

Murray logged only eight carries for 24 yards in Philadelphia's most recent victory over the New England Patriots. He's had an enigmatic start to his time with the Eagles, who signed Murray to a five-year, $40 million contract this offseason but have seen the 27-year-old produce just 3.5 yards per carry.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport had another update prior to kickoff that suggested Murray will hardly see the field vs. Buffalo—if at all.

"Murray is expected to be the fourth-most used running back on the Eagles today," Rapoport said, per NFL Media. Ryan Mathews ended up getting the start in the backfield, per Rapoport.

Bleacher Report's Mike Freeman weighed in on the situation:

After winning the NFL rushing title last season with the Dallas Cowboys, Murray hasn't lived up to the hype upon moving to the NFC East rival Eagles. Making the situation even more bizarre, Kelly has final say over personnel and was the one who so coveted Murray, only to play him sparsely.

Thanks to the futility in Philadelphia's division, there's still a chance for the Eagles to make the playoffs. It's baffling why Kelly won't dole out more touches to a playmaker who has the skills to help the Eagles rise above the NFC East's mediocrity.

Whatever the circumstances are behind the scenes that led to this backfield decision, at least Philly has capable players to turn to in Darren Sproles and Mathews. The former isn't a runner between the tackles, though. Although Mathews can be, he has a history of injuries and is thus a slight liability despite his obvious talent.

And Kenjon Barner getting carries over a healthy Murray?

Whether it was Murray's meeting with owner Jeffrey Lurie on the team plane last week that irked Kelly or another reason, something doesn't add up—Murray's lack of production behind Football Outsiders' 30th-ranked run-blocking offensive line notwithstanding.

Kelly's moves have been questioned as he's overhauled the roster to his liking. His handling of a handpicked, gifted player in Murray is perhaps the most puzzling of all his decisions at the helm.