Eagles running backs combined for 74 catches, 454 yards, and 1 receiving touchdown, and those numbers could go up with Kellen Moore installed as the new offensive coordinator. Kenneth Gainwell returns as a reserve running back in the final year of his contract.
The most significant additions were Saquon Barkley in free agency and Will Shipley, drafted out of Clemson. During his first training camp press conference, Kellen Moore provided insight into how he’ll utilize the Philadelphia running backs.
“It does have to be an outlet at times for the quarterback, but I think it’s critical that we utilize those guys in the pass game to create horizontal space and every once in a while, get them vertical”.
“We have been fortunate to be around some really good ones in the past. [RB] Saquon [Barkley] is going to be phenomenal.” “[RB] Kenny [Gainwell] has done it here before.” “[RB] Will [Shipley] has shown tons of evidence that he’ll be able to utilize that skill.”
“So we have three backs that can play a lot of different places on the field, and that will be a huge advantage for us.”
In 14 games last season, Barkley logged 962 yards and six rushing touchdowns while continuing his dual-threat dominance with 41 receptions for 280 yards and four touchdowns for the 6-11 Giants.
The Eagles have A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, and Dallas Goedert as their primary pass catchers, but elevating the running backs in the passing game can take even more pressure off quarterback Jalen Hurts.
