NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Eddie George gave a thumbs-up to the addition running back DeMarco Murray.
It turns out Murray grew up a big fan of the former Titans running back.
"Growing up, I was a huge Eddie George fan,'' said Murray, who was raised in Las Vegas, and played in college at Oklahoma. "I remember the '99 run the Titans had to the Super Bowl, and just I remember how great he was. I was always a huge fan of his. I liked his game so much."
A four-time Pro Bowler, George ran for 10,009 yards from 1996-2003, with 64 touchdowns with the Titans. The Titans made four playoff appearances during that stretch, and made it to two AFC Championship Games and a Super Bowl.
Murray, a six-year veteran, has rushed for 5,228 yards and 34 touchdowns during his career. He was named the league's Offensive Player of the Year after leading the NFL and setting Cowboys franchise records in rushing yards (1,845), and scrimmage yards (2,261) in 2014. In his lone season with the Eagles, Murray ran for 702 yards and six touchdowns on just 193 carries last season.
The Titans, of course, traded for Murray last week.
"Eddie George was a powerful running back,'' Murray said. "I followed him for a long time. He was not only a great running back for the Titans, but in the NFL as well. And everyone knows what Chris Johnson did in Tennessee, with his 2,000-yard season (in 2009). … The Titans have had some good ones over the years."
George, the franchise's all-time leading rusher, said this week he believes Murray can made a big impact on young quarterback Marcus Mariota, and the entire team.
The Titans traded for the former Cowboys and Eagles running back last week.
"I think the Titans are getting a player in DeMarco Murray who feels disrespected after leaving Philadelphia and he wants to prove his worth. He is coming back with a chip on his shoulder and the Titans desperately need a running game to help Marcus Mariota,'' George said of Murray.
"… DeMarco, when he's had lanes and you give him space, he's deadly."
Running back DeMarco Murray arrives at Saint Thomas Sports Park to sign his contract. (Photos: Gary Glenn)
