Report: RB Ajayi cleared in ACL recovery


Sep 16, 2018; Tampa, FL, USA; Philadelphia Eagles running back Jay Ajayi (26) runs with the ball as Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David (54) tackles during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Photo Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 16, 2018; Tampa, FL, USA; Philadelphia Eagles running back Jay Ajayi (26) runs with the ball as Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Lavonte David (54) tackles during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Photo Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Free agent running back Jay Ajayi was fully cleared on Wednesday by Dr. James Andrews in his recovery from a torn ACL in his right knee, ESPN reported.

Per the report, teams have been informed, and Ajayi is expected to join a new team soon.

The 26-year-old was hurt in October in the Philadelphia Eagles’ loss to the Minnesota Vikings, ending his season after four games with 45 carries for 184 yards and three touchdowns. He has not drawn much reported interest since becoming a free agent in March.

Ajayi joined Philadelphia via trade from Miami midway through 2017 and helped the Eagles to the Super Bowl LII title that year. He reached the Pro Bowl with the Dolphins in 2016, rushing 260 times for 1,272 yards and eight touchdowns.

He has 2,516 rushing yards and 13 scores across 42 games through four seasons.

Many teams were concerned about Ajayi’s right knee and his long-term availability when he came out of Boise State, contributing to his slide to the fifth round in 2015.

Fantasy Update: Keep an eye on Ajayi. He could be a sleeper if he lands on a team where there is no clear-cut starter. When healthy, Ajayi is a powerful runner who is always a weapon around the goal-line.