Philadelphia Eagles: Here’s what experts say about a Melvin Gordon trade

2. Injuries and depth

Last year, Josh Adams, an undrafted rookie free agent, worked his way into an important role on the Eagles offense, racking up 511 yards and three touchdowns in the process. That isn’t what the plan was heading into the season though.

Adams was promoted to the active roster after several guys who everyone thought would be key contributors went down with injury. One minute, we were talking about a Darren Sproles victory tour, whether or not Jay Ajayi would emerge, and talking about what Corey Clement would do in year two. The next minute, neither of those three were available. That forced Adams into action.

If anyone knows what ‘next man up’ means, it’s the Eagles. Philly would love to have some stability and durability in the backfield, and despite the fact that Gordon has yet to prove he’s indestructible, there isn’t a team that wouldn’t take a chance on him at this point of his career.

Then, there’s the other thing. In Philly’s ‘committee’ system at tailback, split carries would spell both Howard and Gordon and ensure they’re both healthy late in the year. Depth is what Philly wants. Depth is what Gordon will provide.