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Philadelphia Eagles: 3 ways Kenneth Gainwell will make an impact in ’21

By David Esser

Dec 28, 2019; Arlington, Texas, USA; Memphis Tigers running back Kenneth Gainwell (19) runs the ball against Penn State Nittany Lions linebacker Cam Brown (6) in the first quarter at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 28, 2019; Arlington, Texas, USA; Memphis Tigers running back Kenneth Gainwell (19) runs the ball against Penn State Nittany Lions linebacker Cam Brown (6) in the first quarter at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports /
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Philadelphia Eagles Kenneth Gainwell
Nov 29, 2019; Memphis, TN, USA; Memphis Tigers running back Kenneth Gainwell (19) rushes in the fourth quarter against the Cincinnati Bearcats at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium. Tigers won 34-24. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports /

Primary passing option out of the backfield.

Following his rookie season, Miles Sanders looked like he was going to develop into a rather special receiving back. He logged 50 catches for 509 yards, recording three receiving touchdowns in the process as well.

Fast forward a year, and Sanders was pretty much the opposite when it came to catching passes out of the backfield. His drop rate ranked towards the top of the league, and his inability to help out in pass protection left Carson Wentz completely exposed on more than one occasion.

With Gainwell now on the roster, those primary receiving back duties could be pawned off onto him.

Gainwell was praised for his route running during the pre-draft process, and his college numbers reflect that as well. He put up 600+ receiving yards during his final season at Memphis, averaging 12 yards per reception while also hauling in three TD passes.

Not only does this aid Sanders by taking even more responsibilities off his plate, but is also gives Sirianni quite the arsenal of playmakers to incorporate out of the backfield in the passing game. Working in a good number of screens, wheel routes, and “Texas” routes could really help the team’s second-year quarterback who’s yet to start a full season’s worth of games (Jalen Hurts).

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