The newest addition to the Birds is running back Kerryon Johnson, formerly of the Detroit Lions. The Lions certainly had high hopes for Johnson when they selected him in the second round of the 2018 draft, but his electric potential was never realized as a consequence of both injury and existing in a crowded backfield.
The Auburn product will face yet another crowded backfield in Philadelphia. The Eagles’ roster of running backs currently include Miles Sanders, Boston Scott, Jordan Howard, and Kenny Gainwell, who was just taken in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL draft.
D’Andre Swift, whom the Lions took in the second round of last year’s draft, was incredibly productive during his rookie season. As a result, the Lions felt Johnson was expendable and decided to waive him last week.
Lead ball carrier duties will still fall squarely on the shoulders of Miles Sanders. However, Johnson is just another backfield weapon the Eagles now have at their disposal. He has always been adept at catching the ball in space and making defenders miss, his primary issue is just remaining healthy enough to stay on the field.
Through three seasons in Detroit, Kerryon Johnson ran for 1,225 yards and eight touchdowns. Additionally, he caught 61 passes for 527 yards and three touchdowns.
