Eagles GM leaves open possibility of drafting an early running back

The Philadelphia Eagles haven't drafted a running back in the first round of the NFL Draft in nearly 40 years. Still, general manager Howie Roseman left the possibility open while speaking with reporters on Thursday. 

When asked specifically about selecting a running back with the 10th overall pick, Roseman left all options on the table, pointing out that while the Eagles seek a "unique" player, they do not plan on falling into the trap of passing over talent in favor of positional need.  

"I think if you start saying, 'We can get a unique player, but it's got to be this position,' you really narrow your options," Roseman said via Ralph Vacchiano of Fox Sports. "Just try to be as open-minded as possible about what that looks like." 

Roseman's dance-around answer is not an endorsement for drafting a running back with one of the team's two first-round picks, but it's not a flat no either. 

The last running back selected in the first round by the Eagles was Keith Byars in 1986, with the 10th overall pick. If the planets were ever to align for a repeat of history, the Day 1 of the 2023 NFL Draft might be the moment. 

The Eagles have the luxury of four top-100 picks and Texas running back Bijan Robinson, an instant difference-maker, will likely be there for the taking if the Eagles are willing to take the leap. 

With the draft a week away, though, running back values are seemingly taking a plunge. According to NFL Mock Draft Database, the consensus pick at 30 for the Eagles is Alabama running back Jahmyr Gibbs, followed by Robinson.  

Robinson and other backs may fall, giving the Eagles an even better shot at landing one. Top draft gurus see Robinson landing in Philly, too. In ESPN's latest combined mock draft, selected by Mel Kiper Jr. and Todd McShay, the latter has Robinson going to the Eagles at No. 10. 

After locking up franchise quarterback Jalen Hurts to a $255 million extension -- the richest deal in NFL history -- adding a back like Robinson to grow alongside him might not be the worst idea for the reigning NFC champs.