The new-look Eagles offense will be on display Sunday. While the team’s passing attack will be the main focus of attention, their top running back will likely be on the field as well.
When asked whether he would be available for Philadelphia’s season opener against the Lions, Miles Sanders responded, “Absolutely. Ready to go” (Twitter link via Jeff McLane of the Philadelphia Inquirer).
Sanders has been dealing with a hamstring injury recently. That led, in part, to speculation during roster cutdowns that the Eagles could be eyeing an addition in the backfield. They did indeed make a notable move, claiming 2021 third-rounder Trey Sermon off waivers from the 49ers, bringing another competitor into a crowded position room.
Sermon will look to occupy a complimentary role with his new team, but Sanders should once again operate as the lead back. He was the full-time starter in 2021, a year in which he was limited to 12 contests due to an ankle injury. He put up career-lows in rushing (754) and receiving (158) yards, but averaged a career-high 5.5 yards per carry. The former second-rounder played a key role in the Eagles’ midseason shift to a run-heavy offense which led to a league-leading ground attack.
Entering a contract year, a healthy campaign would not only help the Eagles maintain their effectiveness in the run game, but boost Sanders’ free agent stock as well. Being available for Week 1 will certainly help his cause on that front, and make him a key piece of the Eagles’ offense during a season with heightened expectations.
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