RADIO
BALLER MOVE: Target Around ~121 Overall
CURRENT ADP: ~139
ANALYSIS: Philadelphia Eagles running backs Rashaad Penny and D'Andre Swift have each been prolific in small sample sizes since being drafted in the 2018 and 2020 classes, respectively. But both have failed to secure big-time workloads thanks to injury concerns. Now, the two explosive RBs are set to be in the same backfield for last year's NFC Champions.
The Eagles' offensive line unit is largely viewed as the best in the NFL, so one or both of these ball carriers could have mega-upside in 2023.
In 42 career games over five seasons, Penny has compiled 1,918 rushing yards and 13 rushing touchdowns on 337 attempts. The former San Diego State Aztec averaged 6.3 yards per carry in 2021 and 6.1 yards per carry in 2022 and is arguably the most explosive runner in the NFL. His 5.7 career rushing average is impressive, but he's missed almost as many games (40) as he's played in.
Penny suffered a hand fracture, ACL tear, broken fibula (last season), and several hamstring and knee strains all before the age of 28. The Eagles brought in Penny on a one-year, $1.35 million deal, so they're clearly comfortable with his injury risk at cost.
The workhorse running back role is almost extinct in the NFL, and the Eagles will split the running back work between the two backs and even mix in Kenneth Gainwell. Ultimately, Penny will likely assume the early-down and short-yardage back role, while Swift gets the bulk of the receiving work on third downs and in hurry-up offense situations.
If Penny can stay healthy, he makes for a better standard league option. He has just 27 career receptions and Swift, who is best suited for PPR formats, is a far superior receiver. If either has to miss time with an injury, the other back will have nuclear upside with additional touches.
While the committee situation with Penny, Swift, and Gainwell is less than ideal, the Eagles' running game is so strong that all three backs are worth rostering for fantasy. Even if one of the three gets injured, the other two could both be weekly starters for your fantasy team.
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