Former Toledo Rocket David Fluellen Traded For a Kicker

Earlier this afternoon it was widely reported that former University of Toledo Rocket running back and former All-MAC performer David Fluellen had been waived by the Philadelphia Eagles.   However, in the ever changing world of the NFL in August, it turns out Fluellen has been sent to Indianapolis in exchange for none other than a kicker in the form of former Auburn Tiger, and rookie Cody Parkey.

An undrafted free agent, Fluellen, rushed for 3,336 yards and 28 touchdowns in four collegiate seasons with Toledo, but was having trouble getting on track with Philadelphia and staying healthy.  After six carries for 25 yards in the Eagles' preseason opener against Chicago, which included a 14-yard touchdown reception, he missed the New England game, reportedly for injury.  His position with the Eagles was severely compromised yesterday when the team acquired, via trade, former Oregon Duck Kenjon Barner, reuniting Barner with his college coach Chip Kelly.

While it may be easy to insert a joke regarding being traded for a kicker, which may end up being waived before Labor Day, Fluellen is actually headed to a much improved situation as he pursues his NFL dream.   The Colts running back situation is murky at best, having already lost Vick Ballard for the season, combined with the frequently injured Ahmed Bradshaw and the first-round-flop that has been Trent Richardson, Indianapolis continues to scan the NFL landscape for running back depth and consistency.   The 5-foot-11 and 224-pound Fluellen may not have had the speed or elusiveness that Kelly sought in Philadelphia, but behind Andrew Luck, Fluellen may be able to provide the power and durability the Colts have struggled to secure during Luck's Tenure.

Former Central Michigan running back Zurlon Tipton is also in Colts camp and was recently projected as a contender to land on the 53 man roster along with former Ohio State Buckeye Dan Herron.  The arrival of Fluellen will likely set in motion a battle amongst the former MAC standouts to find a place amongst the final 53 in Indianapolis.

And really, how great would it be if the guy the Colts traded a kicker for, beat out the guy they traded a first round pick for?