After five average seasons behind the San Diego Chargers, Mathews was inked by the Eagles as the solid No. 2 behind DeMarco Murray, giving Shurmur the chance to coach him at last.
"I had a little smile on my face when he came here," Shurmur said ahead of practice on Friday. "I remember when he came out of college, I thought coming out of Fresno [State], I thought he was an outstanding running back. We certainly weren't in a position to draft him, but I've always kind of appreciated what he is as a player and he's showing out there that he's a real solid, sturdy guy."
Mathews missed seven games last season, eventually finishing with three touchdowns, and has played in 14 or more games in only two career seasons. But he rushed for more than 1,000 yards both those campaigns and has 23 touchdowns in five professional seasons on more than 4,000 yards. Shurmur says he can provide a certain, valuable role behind Murray and can offer variety in rushing style compared to him.
"I wouldn't call him a downhill runner, because he has a really good vision and he catches the ball well," Shurmur said of Mathews. "And he does a good job in pass protection. We're very fortunate to have him."
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