Eagles Stay or Go 2025: The Running Back Situation
Reuben Frank and Dave Zangaro bring back their "Stay or Go" segment for the 2025 offseason, analyzing the futures of every Eagles player on the roster. After delving into the quarterback position, they turn their attention to the running backs. The Eagles have a dynamic and talented group, but with the looming free agency of Kenny Gainwell, the team’s decisions will significantly impact the roster.
Saquon Barkley: The Star Running Back
Saquon Barkley had a historic 2024 season, racking up over 2,000 yards from scrimmage and 13 touchdowns after his 27th birthday. He becomes only the fourth player 27 or older to have consecutive seasons with 1,500 yards and a 5.0 average, joining the illustrious ranks of O.J. Simpson, Barry Sanders, and Tiki Barber. Barkley’s exceptional performance and his approach to training, combined with head coach Nick Sirianni’s effective workload management and the Eagles’ formidable offensive line, create a confidence that Barkley can continue to excel in 2025.
Reuben’s Take: Reuben believes that Barkley’s history-making performance and the Eagles’ commitment to his well-being make him a surefire stay for 2025. He predicts that Barkley will again be a dominant force, and the team will likely consider a new contract if he continues to perform at a high level.
Dave’s Take: Dave concurs that Barkley’s record-breaking 2024 season and his current contract—worth $37.75 million over three years—make his return almost certain. Despite a less impactful Super Bowl, Barkley’s influence on the game was evident, and the Eagles will benefit from his presence. Dave also notes that if Barkley has another standout year in 2025, the team will likely reward him with another significant contract.
Kenny Gainwell: The Versatile Backup
Kenny Gainwell has been a reliable backup for the Eagles over the past four years, averaging about 19 rushing yards and 11.5 receiving yards per game in 75 appearances. He is one of only three running backs in NFL history to accumulate 1,000 rushing yards and 100 catches in his first four years, despite starting fewer than five games. Gainwell’s versatility as a runner, receiver, and blocker has made him a valuable asset, but his desire for a more prominent role is clear.
Reuben’s Take: Reuben acknowledges Gainwell’s contributions but doubts he will find a larger role in Philadelphia. Given the Eagles’ investment in Will Shipley, a rookie who can fill many of Gainwell’s roles, and the fact that Gainwell is entering free agency, Reuben predicts Gainwell will leave the team. He believes another franchise will recognize Gainwell’s potential and offer him a more substantial opportunity.
Dave’s Take: Dave agrees with Reuben, emphasizing Gainwell’s relationship with head coach Nick Sirianni and his popularity among teammates, particularly Barkley, who has publicly advocated for Gainwell’s chance to be a featured back. However, Dave also notes that Gainwell’s role diminished in 2024 with Barkley’s stellar performance. He predicts that Gainwell will likely find a better opportunity elsewhere, though the Eagles might re-sign him if the market doesn’t offer a lucrative deal.
Will Shipley: The Rising Prospect
Will Shipley, a fourth-round pick in the 2024 draft, made a significant impression in his rookie season, particularly during the NFC Championship Game. Shipley’s 57-yard run against the Commanders was the fifth-longest postseason run in Eagles history, and he also contributed 4 catches for 35 yards in the season finale against the Giants. His flashes of brilliance and versatility make him a strong candidate for the backup role in 2025.
Reuben’s Take: Reuben is confident in Shipley’s potential, noting that the Eagles drafted him with the intention of grooming him for a significant role. Shipley’s dual abilities as a runner and receiver, along with his solid performance in spot duty, suggest that he is well-prepared to take on the No. 2 role if Gainwell departs. Reuben believes the team will lean on Shipley to step up in 2025.
Dave’s Take: Dave shares Reuben’s optimism about Shipley, highlighting his impressive training camp and the team’s investment in him. Even with a limited role in 2024, Shipley demonstrated his athleticism and versatility. If Gainwell leaves, Dave anticipates Shipley will be the primary backup to Barkley, a position that carries significant responsibility given the team’s reliance on the running game.
Tyrion Davis-Price: The Under-the-Radar Option
Tyrion Davis-Price, a former third-round pick by the 49ers, spent the 2024 season on the Eagles’ practice squad and saw limited action. He was elevated for only the second Cowboys game and ran a few times late in the game with the score heavily in the Eagles’ favor. Davis-Price was signed to a futures contract after the season, indicating the team sees potential in him.
Reuben’s Take: Reuben views Davis-Price as a player with untapped potential. His stay on the practice squad throughout the year and his recent contract suggest that the Eagles have some interest in his development. However, Reuben believes that Davis-Price will have to compete for a RB3 spot if Gainwell leaves, and the likelihood of him making the roster is uncertain.
Dave’s Take: Dave echoes Reuben’s sentiment, noting Davis-Price’s solid performance in training camp and his status as a former third-round pick. If Gainwell is gone, Davis-Price has a better chance of making the team, but he will face stiff competition. Dave predicts that Davis-Price will need a strong summer to solidify his position and believes that additional moves in free agency or the draft could affect his future with the Eagles.
The Future of the Running Back Rotation
The Eagles’ running back situation in 2025 is a mix of established talent and promising prospects. Barkley’s dominant presence and the team’s investment in him ensure his return, while Gainwell’s future is more uncertain. Shipley’s impressive rookie season and versatility position him well to take on a larger role, and Davis-Price will need to prove himself if he wants to stick around.
Reuben’s Analysis: Reuben sees the team’s running back depth as a strength, with Barkley as the cornerstone and Shipley ready to step up. He believes the Eagles will prioritize quality over quantity, likely retaining the most talented and cost-effective options. If Gainwell leaves, the team might explore other free agents or draft picks to fill the gap, but Shipley’s development is a positive sign.
Dave’s Analysis: Dave agrees that the Eagles have a strong foundation with Barkley and Shipley. He also notes the team’s strategic approach to player development and the potential for new additions. If Gainwell departs, the Eagles will have room to maneuver and could bring in a more experienced player to complement Barkley and Shipley. However, he remains optimistic about the team’s current setup and the potential for internal growth.
Conclusion: Navigating the Free Agency Landscape
The Eagles’ decisions regarding their running backs in 2025 will be crucial as they aim to maintain their offensive efficiency and depth. Barkley’s return is a given, but the team will need to decide whether to match offers for Gainwell or invest in Shipley’s development. Davis-Price’s fate will depend on the team’s broader plans and his performance in the off-season. Both Reuben and Dave are confident in the team’s ability to navigate these decisions and maintain a formidable running back corps.
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