DeMarco Murray: 'I've Never Dealt With Anything Like This In My Life'
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- For DeMarco Murray, the only thing as hard as not playing is answering questions about not playing.
The Eagles running back continues to field questions about his reduced role after carrying the ball only two times for three yards against Arizona. On Tuesday, reporters gathered by Murray's locker to ask more questions about his lack of carries. While Murray insists his only goal is to help the Eagles win, he did admit it is a topic of discussion which was beginning to wear thin.
"I've never dealt with anything like this in my life," said Murray. "That's more frustrating more than anything, but this is how it is."
While Murray is keeping his cool as he continues to deal with questions about his playing time, it would be hard to argue that the man who led the NFL in rushing last season has grown frustrated with his situation. There is no indication his role will change over the last two games. Offensive Coordinator Pat Shurmur says he would understand if Murray has grown tired of watching from the sidelines.
"He's doing what he's supposed to do," Shurmur said. "But he's like any other guy. He wants the ball every play and is disappointed when he doesn't get it or doesn't get it as much as he thinks he should have. We all get that."
Murray may or may not have gone to the coaching staff to complain about his situation or ask for more playing time. There is also the matter of Murray's chat with Owner Jeffrey Lurie on the plane ride home from New England. No matter what has happened behind closed doors of first-class airline seats, Murray insists he will be ready on game day no matter how many times he touches the football.
"I can only control what I can," said Murray. "I can't control when my number is called. I can only control when I'm in there for whatever amount of time it is and I've got the opportunity to give my best effort for the guys in this locker room and fight and continue to go from there."
Murray said he believes he is the same running back, if not better, than the one he was a year ago in Dallas. However, Murray may not get the chance to prove it as the Eagles continue their push for the NFC East title. Murray's ordeal has not dampened his confidence, and he still believes he can be a difference maker if he gets his chance on game day.
"You've got a lot of pride in yourself and a lot of confidence in yourself," Murray said. "I've got a lot of confidence in the other guys as well. I'm just happy to be here and I'll continue to try and help this team as much as I can no matter what it is, whether it's one play or two plays."
