Eagles React To AJ Dillon Role In Offense

Who needs the Tush Push if you have a top power running back to score in from the goalline area anyway?

That's the argument the Philadelphia Eagles are making as they wait for the official word on whether or not their variation of the quarterback sneak will be banned this offseason.

Philadelphia signed former Green Bay Packers running back AJ Dillon this offseason to a one-year deal. The former goal-line specialist did not play during the 2024 season as he recovered from a neck injury.

Now in an offense with Saquon Barkley leading the charge, the veteran believes he can step up in a major role for the defending champs.

"I think you'll see similar things that Kenny Gainwell did, or Will Shipley did and we'll see how that role defines itself," Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni said. "We're excited about the player and the things that he brings and the person he is. Sometimes the ways you think you can use him then you get in there and get your hands on him, you start working with him, and that defines itself. So, we'll see."

Those sentiments by Sirianni were also echoed by general manager Howie Roseman as well.

"Talented guy, out last year with an injury, seems healthy, determined to succeed," said the GM. "He's a great complement to the guys we have here – obviously, Saquon is in a league of his own and we drafted Will Shipley last year and we're very confident in Will with what he did last year as a personal protector on punts having never made a tackle in his life and playing as well as he played on special teams, and then when he had time on the field at running back he had a couple of long runs and we are excited to see what he can do."

With the Tush Push on the way out, the Eagles need to find a way to stay successful in goal line situations. Dillon is a perfect fit in that regard.