The Philadelphia Eagles backfield will undoubtedly be under a microscope in 2022.

Miles Sanders seemed to be the odd man out regarding the youth that received extensions this past year for the Eagles. Due to an underwhelming season and the nature of the running back position, Sander’s days as an Eagle could be numbered. Then there’s Kenneth Gainwell, a former fifth-round pick out of Memphis.

Gainwell had a solid rookie season in 2021, carrying the ball 68 times for 291 yards and five touchdowns, which is five more than his predecessor. He also snagged 33 receptions for 253 yards and a touchdown.

The multi-dimensional skillset of Gainwell appears to be well suited for Sirianni’s offense. It also helps that Gainwell remains very confident heading into 2022.

“I’m trying to go into year two and go crazy,” Gainwell told Josh Tolentino of The Philadelphia Inquirer. “Year one was good for me. But I feel like coach (Nick) Sirianni, he knows what he got out of me. I’m coming back and I’m going to go off.”

Miles Sanders will likely remain the Eagles’ lead back this coming season entering the final year of his rookie contract, but due to the team’s run-heavy scheme, there will be plenty of opportunity for Gainwell. If he continues to improve running between the tackles and remains a weapon in the passing game, the Eagles should have a very productive backfield in 2022.

If there’s anything that stands out with this new Eagles regime, it’s the mentality and work ethic. Most notably coming from the youth of this team, including Jalen Hurts, DeVonta Smith, Miles Sanders, and Kenneth Gainwell.

Mandatory Credit: Getty Images