Bruising free-agent running backs who would reinvent the Eagles' rushing attack
2. Josh Jacobs, Las Vegas Raiders
Like Henry, Jacobs cut his collegiate teeth at the University of Alabama. Unlike Henry, Jacobs was a collegiate teammate of both Eagles franchise signal-caller Jalen Hurts (2016-2018) and DeVonta Smith (2017, 2018), so there's a good chance realigning these good friends and igniting some professional chemistry. Something tells us those three would welcome a reunion.
Jacobs won the rushing title in 2022 and was lost in the shuffle during a failed Josh McDaniels head-coaching experiment by the Las Vegas Raiders. If he wants a change of scenery and Philly shows interest, you won't hear any complaints from us.
1. Saquon Barkley, New York Giants
Last offseason, Saquon Barkley made headlines for holding out before returning to the New York Giants to play on the franchise tag. 14 in-season appearances by the two-time Pro Bowler (2018. 2022) were the results of all of that. He notched 962 yards and six rushing TDs on 247 carries. He also notched 180 yards and four more TDs on 41 receptions.
Raise your hand if you believe the Birds could benefit from that type of production.
We have admired Barkley's game since his days with the Penn State Nittany Lions. He's spent his professional career with a rival, but as part of Philly's offense, the Eagles would be unstoppable. There's just one question. How could the two sides ever agree on a deal?
Very honorable mention: Austin Ekeler, L.A. Chargers
Okay... So, Austin Ekeler isn't really a 'bruising running back'. Damn, he's good though, and here's the thing. He provides another option in the passing game.
He may have lost a step. He doesn't burn up the turf in the open field like he used to, but it will be interesting to see if the Eagles or anyone else is interested in his services.