Eagles news: Kenneth Gainwell set for breakout season; Broderick Jones a prospect to watch?

No doubt in my mind Kenny Gainwell can be a 60-catch guy in addition to everything he gives the Eagles as a ball carrier. Consider this: Over the last two years, Gainwell has played only 629 snaps – just 18 ½ per game – but has 56 catches on 79 targets. That’s outstanding efficiency and production in the receiving game as a part-time player. Gainwell is very smooth as a pass catcher, sees the field well, understands where his blockers are and is fast, slippery, elusive and tough. He had issues with drops in training camp last summer but had only two drops during the regular season, and Jalen Hurts seems to really trust him on third down. Since 1990, only four backs drafted in the fifth round or later have had 500 rushing yards, 50 catches and a 4.4 average in their first two years – Terry Allen, Terrell Davis, Jordan Howard and Gainwell. Only Gainwell wasn’t a starter. It’s easy to be excited about Rashaad Penny and his potential, but Gainwell will be RB1 in 2023, and there’s no reason he can’t handle it.

The Eagles are a destination location in the NFL and that is not to be taken lightly. There is no question that there are other factors to consider when players are making decisions on where to play – finances, positional opportunities, playing time, scheme, etc. – but let’s be clear: Culture has a lot to do with it, too. Players love being in the NovaCare Complex, a home away from home. They love, honestly, how much the organization gives back to the community. They love playing in Philadelphia, one of the great football and sports cities in the world. They love the interaction with the fans, who players understand really, really, truly care.

It takes a village to be a top, top, top organization and that’s what the Eagles are and will continue to be.