5 arguments for the Eagles giving Kenneth Gainwell more snaps at WR

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - OCTOBER 10: Kenneth Gainwell #14 of the Philadelphia Eagles in action during their game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium on October 10, 2021 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - OCTOBER 10: Kenneth Gainwell #14 of the Philadelphia Eagles in action during their game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium on October 10, 2021 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /
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Philadelphia Eagles
Kenneth Gainwell, Philadelphia Eagles (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images) /

Kenneth Gainwell’s playing time has been on the decline recently.

In recent weeks, Kenneth Gainwell has been phased out of the Philadelphia Eagles offensive game plan. Jordan Howard and Boston Scott have received the bulk of the reps, and with the return of Miles Sanders, Gainwell was inactive this past Sunday versus the New Orleans Saints.

Part of the reason for that could be the fact that Gainwell’s strengths are better suited for shotgun formations while the three backs in front of him have a bit more experience in traditional formations with the quarterback under center. At the same time, Gainwell’s vision and patience wouldn’t be lacking if the quarterback was under center and Gainwell lined up behind him.

The Eagles’ rookie running back no doubt has a long-term role in this offense with his versatility. Right now, head coach Nick Sirianni is vying for the experience at the position, and that has decision has worked.

It’s still a bit puzzling given that Gainwell had mostly positive contributions as a runner, receiver, and pass protector. As a young running back, there’s always room to improve and learn but it seems that he is just buried on a talented depth chart.