The Eagles are coming off a historic season, with Saquon Barkley running for over 2,000 yards. So, why would they consider drafting another running back? The more the merrier, right? With Kenneth Gainwell possibly leaving, this could be a chance for the Eagles to continue to build depth in the running back position, especially in this deep draft class.

Bhayshul Tuten

Bhayshul Tuten’s journey to the NFL Draft started in the back roads of New Jersey, where he piled up 3,768 yards and 77 touchdowns at Paulsboro High School. Despite putting up huge numbers and running one of the fastest 60-meter times in South Jersey history (7.03), Tuten flew under the radar and ended up at North Carolina A&T. After a record-breaking season with 1,363 yards as a sophomore, he took a chance on transferring to Virginia Tech.

That decision paid off. In two seasons with the Hokies, Tuten proved he could compete at the ACC level, rushing for 1,851 yards while showing off his skills as a threat in all phases of the game. His breakout moment came in October 2024, when he ran for a school-record 266 yards against Boston College. Even though an ankle injury slowed him later in the season, he still finished averaging 6.3 yards per carry and earned All-ACC honors as an all-purpose player.

While the stats tell one story, his film shows a back who got better each year. From returning kicks at A&T to becoming a complete back capable of handling a big workload in the ACC, Tuten’s development has been impressive. His Senior Bowl invitation gives NFL teams the chance to see if his track speed (4.32 in the 40-yard dash) translates to the next level.

Strengths:

• Explosive runner with quick acceleration, evident in his 4.32-second 40-yard dash.
• Reliable hands, tracks the ball effectively, and adjusts well to off-target throws.
• Tough, balanced runner who consistently picks up extra yards after contact.
• Patient with good vision on zone runs, able to identify and exploit cutback lanes.
• A dynamic playmaker in the screen game, using blocks well to create big gains.
• Special teams contributor, particularly as a kick returner.
• Willing to run between the tackles and fight for tough yards.

Weaknesses:

• Needs refinement in pass protection, particularly in maintaining proper positioning.
• Can hesitate in the backfield at times, would benefit from more decisive cuts.
• Not the shiftiest runner in tight spaces, relies more on straight-line burst.
• Some concerns with ball security that need to be addressed.
• Late-season ankle injury slightly limited his explosiveness.

Summary:
Tuten could be a mid-round steal with his rare mix of speed and physicality. He thrives in a zone scheme where his one-cut explosiveness can shine. While there are areas to improve, particularly in pass blocking and decision-making, his versatility and upside make him an intriguing prospect.

Ollie Gordon II

Ollie Gordon II made a huge impact in 2023, winning the Doak Walker Award as the nation’s best running back. Gordon, from Oklahoma State, led the FBS in rushing yards (1,732) and yards from scrimmage (2,062) despite a slow start. His rise was fast, finishing seventh in the Heisman voting, the highest of any running back.

A native of Euless, Texas, Gordon had an outstanding high school career, rushing for 2,546 yards and 35 touchdowns in his senior year. He chose Oklahoma State over top schools like Texas and USC. Gordon made an immediate impact as a freshman in 2022, leading the Cowboys with 308 rushing yards despite limited carries.

His sophomore season in 2023 was historic. He posted nine 100-yard games, including a 282-yard performance against West Virginia. Gordon’s ability to wear down defenses was on full display, as he rushed for 1,096 yards in the second half of the season, the most in the nation. He also showed his versatility, becoming the first Cowboy since 1989 to record 100 yards both rushing and receiving in a game against Kansas.

Strengths:

• Excellent patience and field vision, allowing him to set up blocks effectively.
• Well-built (6’1”, 211 lbs) with enough speed to break long runs.
• Strong, balanced runner who consistently pushes through tacklers.
• Quick lateral movement allows him to evade defenders in tight spaces.
• Soft hands and solid receiving skills, adding another dimension to his game.
• Secure ball handler, with only two fumbles on 285 carries in 2023.

Weaknesses:

• Sometimes waits too long for a hole to develop, giving defenders time to close in.
• Doesn’t have elite burst, which could limit his ability to create big plays in the NFL.
• May need time to adjust to the speed and complexity of pro-style offenses.
• Still developing as a pass protector.
• Had some struggles against loaded defensive fronts.

Summary:
Gordon has the tools to be a featured back at the next level. His blend of size, vision, and balance should translate well, and his receiving skills add to his value. While his top-end acceleration isn’t elite, his ability to wear down defenses makes him a strong prospect for teams looking for a reliable runner.

Phil Mafah

Phil Mafah is another running back who stands out after his career at Clemson. The 6’1”, 225-pound back from Georgia had a great senior season, building on his breakout 2023 year, where he rushed for 965 yards and 13 touchdowns.

Mafah came to Clemson as a 4-star recruit and saw limited action his first year. However, he became a key contributor in 2022, rushing for 515 yards and 4 touchdowns. In 2023, he became the lead back, splitting duties with Will Shipley, and was named to the All-ACC fourth team.

One of Mafah’s best moments came in the 2023 Gator Bowl against Kentucky, where he ran for 71 yards and a Clemson bowl-record 4 touchdowns. His senior season showed his ability to take over games.

Strengths:

• Physical, downhill runner who thrives on contact and keeps his legs moving.
• Sharp vision and patience allow him to let blocks develop before attacking lanes.
• Dependable receiver out of the backfield with the potential to be a three-down back.
• Durable and built to handle a heavy workload, especially in late-game situations.
• Quick burst when hitting open running lanes.
• Scheme-versatile, capable of producing in both zone and power-running systems.

Weaknesses:

• Lacks top-end speed, which limits his ability to break long runs.
• Pass protection needs work to become a complete third-down option.
• Can struggle when the offensive line fails to create space.
• Not as elusive as some backs, relying more on strength than quick cuts to break tackles.

Summary:
Mafah is a rugged, downhill runner who can wear down defenses with his power and consistency. While he may not be a home-run hitter, his vision, toughness, and reliability make him an excellent fit for a run-heavy scheme. His continued growth as a receiver and pass blocker will only add to his value at the next level.