The Philadelphia Eagles lost six players that played a role on their defense from their Super Bowl winning season last year.
Adding James Bradberry to that list, and the number is seven overall.
But as the Eagles continue to take losses along the defensive side of the ball, they have now lost their first key offensive player as well. Kenneth Gainwell, Philadelphia's immediate backup running back, has signed a one-year deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
The news was broken by Jordan Schultz of FOX Sports.
Gainwell recorded 1,906 total yards and 13 TDs in his four years with Philadelphia as a fifth-round pick out of Memphis. In the playoffs, Gainwell has recorded over 370 yards and two total touchdowns during four straight playoff appearances.
The 25-year-old has been a serviceable backup to the Eagles over the last four years. While he was never able to take the next step as a lead back, there is always a need for a third-down caliber player in the NFL.
Related: Eagles' Free Agency Silence Targets 2026 NFL Draft
With the Steelers losing Najee Harris, it would be detrimental to the offense's goal to run in-between the tackles, but Gainwell is the kind of backup runner that continues to be a potential solution at the very least.
And the Eagles will need to figure out a way to replace him behind Barkley.
Whether that is with second-year running back Will Shipley or another player to sign, the Eagles aren't done yet with how they build their offense back up - especially along the depth of the roster.
Related: Eagles Reveal Plan To Replace C.J. Gardner-Johnson
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This story was originally published March 12, 2025 at 8:52 AM.
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