NFL
By: Mark T. Wilson
The Philadelphia Eagles new-look offense should find themselves flying high this season. While Jalen Hurts will be the key, the ground game will not take being third-fiddle lightly. They have a chance to take center stage. The Eagles have always had one of the best ground attacks in the league the last few seasons but this upcoming campaign, they are expected to reach new heights.
Since Hurts arrived in Philly, the offense has been led by the legs of their franchise QB and the running backs. With Miles Sanders leading the way, the Philadelphia Eagles have always been a threat to break one loose and to wear a defense down. Last season, despite their struggles, the Eagles still managed to finish 8th in Yards and 6th in Attempts. Now, with Saquon Barkley, his presence alone should help the Eagles get back on track. A reliable running game will open up passing lanes for Hurts and the passing attack.
Here is a look at the running backs for the 2024-25 Philadelphia Eagles.
Saquon Barkley
Barkley was the key addition for the new-look Eagles offense this offseason. After spending the first 6 years of his career with the New York Giants, Barkley will look to trade in his Face of the Franchise title for Super Bowl winner. Barkley, when healthy is easily one of the top 3 running backs in the NFL. The Eagles are hoping running behind one of the best offensive lines in the league will take Barkley and the offense to new heights.
For his career, Barkley has rushed for 5211 yards and 35 touchdowns. And what’s often left off his resume is his ability to catch the ball out of the backfield. Barkley has hauled in 288 passes for 2100 yards with 12 TDs. Keep in mind, this was done with limited support from the Giants’ offense and coaching staff. This time around, he has a capable QB, reliable WRs, and a solid OC in Kellen Moore. However, the criticism of Barkley has been his availability. The injury knock is a bit overblown as Barkley has played in 13 or more games 5 of the 6 years he’s been in the league.
Kenneth Gainwell
At one point, Gainwell was being pegged as the top back for the Eagles. But Miles Sanders put that to bed in 2022. Gainwell is not a 3-down back like Barkley but he’s a good change of pace back. He can hit any gap and take it around the edges. But will he see significant time? Last season in a limited role while backing up D’Andre Swift, Gainwell rushed for 364 yards and 2 touchdowns on 84 attempts.
This season could be more of the same if Barkley can stay on the field. Where Gainwell can make an impact is pass-catching. In his 3 seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, Gainwell has caught 86 passes for 605 yards. If Moore can utilize his speed in the open field Gainwell paired with Barkley will be a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Will Shipley
Howie Roseman drafted Shipley hoping he could help fill the void left by the departure of Boston Scott. While Scott was in no way a threat to become a 1000-yard rusher, he more than proved his worth when called upon. Last year, while with the Clemson Tigers, Shipley rushed for 827 yards and 5 TDs. He does have speed and could be a steal. However, much like Gainwell, how much time will Shipley see in his first season?
With the Eagles offense and their many weapons, a guy like Shipley could still have an impact. during his 3 seasons with the Tigers, Shipley totaled 85 receptions for 602 yards. For Eagles fans sad to see Scott leave, Shipley fits the mold of the ‘Ole Giants killer.
Comments 1