The Philadelphia Eagles are built to contend for another Super Bowl, and with the recent addition of A.J. Dillon behind Saquon Barkley, their backfield appears set. But NFL analyst Sterling Xie of Pro Football Network believes there's still room for one more playmaker-and his suggestion could make the Eagles' offense virtually unstoppable.
Currently with the Washington Commanders, Austin Ekeler is an unconventional name on the trade rumor mill, but Xie sees Philadelphia as an ideal landing spot. The rationale is hard to argue: Ekeler's elite pass-catching ability would mesh perfectly with Barkley's downhill power and create matchup nightmares in two-back sets. Few teams in the league could match the kind of versatility and production Philadelphia would have if they paired Ekeler with their All-Pro running back.
Ekeler's resume is elite. With 475 career receptions for 4,250 yards and 30 touchdowns, his receiving numbers rival those of many slot receivers. His 20-touchdown season in 2021 solidified his status as one of the most complete backs in the league. Even after an injury-plagued 2024 season, he still averaged 4.8 yards per carry and earned All-Pro honors as a return specialist, showcasing his continued impact.
For quarterback Jalen Hurts, Ekeler would add yet another high-IQ weapon in the short passing game, especially on third downs and in the red zone. While Dillon offers punch between the tackles, he lacks the route-running and receiving polish that makes Ekeler a unique asset in modern NFL offenses.
Schematically, the addition would open up endless creative opportunities for Philadelphia's offense. Imagine Hurts flanked by Barkley and Ekeler, with A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith on the perimeter. The threat of power runs, jet motions, screens, and option plays would force defenses into constant confusion-and fatigue.
The primary challenge lies in execution. Washington would have to be willing to trade within the NFC East-an obstacle in most scenarios. However, with four running backs on expiring contracts and Ekeler's $11.4 million deal offering manageable cap implications, the Commanders might see value in recouping a Day 3 pick while retooling their own backfield. Ekeler's injury history and age (29) could further reduce his trade cost.
For Philadelphia, it's exactly the kind of calculated risk GM Howie Roseman has mastered. Low cost, high upside, and a perfect fit for a roster already brimming with talent.
If Roseman were to pull it off, the Eagles wouldn't just have the most dynamic backfield in football-they'd have an offensive unit bordering on unfair. And for a team already chasing back-to-back championships, that might be the edge they need to stay ahead of the pack.
