Underrated Eagles players that could be key contributors during 2023 NFL season

Rashaad Penny, Running Back

Another underrated contributor could be new Eagles running back Rashaad Penny. He signed a one-year, $1.23 million contract in March. He suffered a broken fibula that ended his 2022 season after five games, but he has shown the ability to be a productive runner when he is on the field.

When he was present in 2022, he amassed 346 yards and two touchdowns on 57 rushing attempts. He also collected 241 yards after contact and forced 13 missed tackles. This came after the 2021 season when he rushed for 749 yards and six touchdowns. PFF gave him a rushing grade of 83.7 as a result.

Penny has also shown signs of being a reliable contributor as a pass-blocker. In 58 career pass-blocking opportunities, he has only allowed five quarterback pressures, one quarterback hit, and one sack.

While the Eagles have other running backs that they are excited about, D'Andre Swift and Kenneth Gainwell for instance, they'll be asked to be receiving backs. Penny, if he's healthy, can be relied upon to do some dirty work and be a hammer between the tackles.

As an early-down runner, his physical style should force teams to respect both aspects of the Eagles' offense. If the Eagles get the best and most healthy version of Penny, they can be more dangerous on offense than they were last season.