One of the biggest holes in the Eagles offense over the years has been the backup running back spot. Whether Miles Sanders was healthy or not, the Eagles have been lacking a 1-2 punch for several seasons now. Boston Scott was fun but he’s probably third string at best. The selection of Kenneth Gainwell in the 5th-round should change that.

Gainwell opted out of the 2020 season, which could be viewed as a major positive considering the fact that the running backs go through the most wear and tear than any other position. In 2019, he rushed for 1,459 yards to go along with 13 touchdowns. Factor that in with his dominant receiving numbers; you have a very talented and running back.

Did I mention this kid can block?

We already know Eagles coach Nick Sirianni loves to use his running backs in the passing game. A common comparison I have been seeing is to Colts running back Nyheim Hines.

“He’s shown that he’s been really good in protection aspects of it as well and that every time he’s going in it’s not [just] a pass play right to him. So, he can protect. He can run the ball. I think that’s a good comparison. Not to say that we would use him exactly the same way because no two players are exactly alike, but we do see the ability to create those mismatches with the linebackers and the safeties, whether inside or outside, with that player; whether he’s in the slot, whether he’s in the backfield, whether he’s outside. That’s a really good comparison.”

Nick Sirianni

Gainwell is a legitimate dual-threat weapon. Combine his multi-faceted skillset with Miles Sanders, the Eagles should have a very productive running back rotation. Eagles fans should be very excited to see the many ways Sirianni will use Gainwell. From lining up in the backfield to splitting him out wide like a slot receiver.

Greg Cosell who is an NFL analyst and a senior producer at NFL films had this to say about Gainwell, “To me, Gainwell is the most Alvin Kamara-like RB in this class. He presents similar value with multiple running game experience, can line up everywhere, and run receiver level routes.” Cosell had a lot of very positive things to say about the new Eagles running back on one of his recent appearances on the “Inside The Birds” podcast.

There’s a lot to like about this fifth-round pick. The Eagles should be getting tremendous value here. Gainwell is just one more piece to this new high-powered Eagles offense. Also fun fact, Gainwell is apparently cousins with Fletcher Cox.

Mandatory Credit: USA Today Sports