Fantasy Insider Report: Jalen Hurts and the Eagles Should Continue to Run
The Athlon Sports 2023 Fantasy Football Annual magazine reached out to team insiders at all 32 NFL clubs to ask them three key fantasy questions heading into the season. As we count down to training camp, Sports Illustrated will publish their answers here. Today’s team: Philadelphia Eagles
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Are there any plans to dial back Jalen Hurts’s rushing play calls?
Because of the heavy dose of RPO action in the Eagles’ attack last year, Hurts had ample opportunity to run, especially when defensive alignments dictated it. While Hurts remains a dangerous runner who will absolutely be used as a ground weapon, the arrivals of D’Andre Swift and Rashaad Penny should take away a few designed runs. Greater experience in the pocket will help him scramble less, too. Hurts may not run 10 times a game, but he will still be on the move.
- 2023 Season Outlook: Philadelphia Eagles
What is the expected workload split between Swift and Penny?
Since both backs have had injury issues over the past few years, it is unreasonable to expect the Eagles to establish one as a meal-ticket back and give him 15-20 carries a game. Expect each to get about 10 carries each week, but don’t forget that Kenneth Gainwell is a nice changeup weapon, particularly in the pass game. Swift is also a much better receiver than Penny.
Who will emerge as the No. 3 receiver?
Last year was not a good one for Quez Watkins, who was plagued by inconsistency and drops. That’s why the Birds signed Olamide Zaccheaus, who caught 40 passes, scored three times and averaged a solid 13.3 yards per catch last season with the Falcons. He is unlikely to explode, but Zaccheaus will be a reliable target who could thrive when defenses devote too much attention to A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith.
—Michael Bradley, Freelance Writer
