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Eagles 2024 Season Player Grades: Running Backs

The NFL season is over, and while that’s tough to accept, the offseason can still be exciting. To kick off the offseason, I’m starting a series where we’ll grade every player on the 53-man roster (and some notable others), as well as the coaches. Today, we’re taking a look at the running backs.


Saquon Barkley

There are really no words to describe the season Saquon Barkley had. I don’t think anyone expected him to come close to what he accomplished this year. Barkley finished the season with 345 carries for 2,005 yards and 17 touchdowns. Absolutely spectacular. What’s even crazier is that he had 17 rushes of over 20 yards. Barkley was always a threat to score anytime he touched the ball.

This season was magical—think about the backwards hurdle, the Rams game, the revenge game against the Giants, the snow game and of course, the NFC Championship Game. Barkley broke the single-season rushing record (both regular season and playoffs), won AP Offensive Player of the Year, and is now a Super Bowl champion. Just an unforgettable year.

Grade: A+


Kenneth Gainwell

Gainwell had moments where he shined in relief of Barkley, but there were also times when the drop-off from Barkley to Gainwell was noticeable. During the regular season, Gainwell’s numbers weren’t spectacular—he rushed 75 times for 290 yards (3.9 yards per carry) and 1 touchdown. One of the biggest criticisms of Gainwell is his lack of big-play ability, as he had only one carry over 20 yards this season.

As a receiver, he caught 16 passes for 116 yards. Gainwell is a solid change-of-pace back, but I don’t see him as a starter, especially if he stays in Philly.

Grade: C


Will Shipley

Shipley didn’t get much playing time this year, but he made the most of his opportunities, especially in the NFC Championship Game. He had 4 carries for 77 yards and a touchdown, and as of now, he boasts an impressive 19.3 yards per carry in the playoffs.

Shipley also played on special teams, where he showed promise as both a returner and a coverage guy, forcing a fumble on the Commanders’ kickoff return in the NFCCG. I think Shipley could have a bigger role next year. There were times when he was used in two-RB formations, and it seems the coaching staff likes him. We’ll see what happens this offseason.

Grade: B

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