3 Philadelphia Eagles who have to take the next step this season

Eagles who need to take the next step: 1. D’Andre Swift

Miles Sanders was a key part of the Philadelphia attack last year but the Eagles, correctly, let him sign a big-money contract with the Panthers in free agency. Credit General Manager Howie Roseman and his front office for the shrewd decision to acquire D’Andre Swift to become the team’s new starting running back.

The Lions’ decision to let Swift leave is going to pay off handsomely for the Eagles. He averaged 5.5 yards per carry in Detroit last year and there’s reason to believe that number could improve in Philadelphia. They have a creative offense that should create even more space for Swift to exploit on a variety of carries.

Swift could make an even larger impact on the Eagles’ offense with his ability to be a high-quality pass catcher out of the backfield. That’s something Sanders didn’t do for Philadelphia last year. Swift has an opportunity to rack up receiving yards on short routes where Jalen Hurts puts pressure on opposing defenses with his scrambling ability.

Kenneth Gainwell will be a factor in the Eagles’ backfield, but Swift has a chance to break out in a big way. Don’t be surprised if the numbers he puts up in 2023 earn him All-Pro consideration in this electric offense.