The Philadelphia Eagles will be carefully monitoring Saquon Barkley’s workload next season following a historic 2024 campaign where he became just the ninth running back in NFL history to rush for 2,000 yards.
While delivering 2,005 yards on the ground, Barkley shouldered a career-high in rushing attempts (345) and total touches (378). After helping lead the Eagles to their second Super Bowl championship, general manager Howie Roseman rewarded Barkley with a groundbreaking extension just one year into his deal — making him the first running back in NFL history to command $20 million annually.
Will Shipley, entering his second year with the Eagles, is positioned for an expanded role in 2025. His rookie campaign yielded modest production with 82 rushing yards on 32 carries and 35 receiving yards on four receptions.
With reliable backup Kenneth Gainwell departing for the Pittsburgh Steelers on a one-year deal, the Eagles have now signed a running back who missed the entire 2024 season with a neck injury to round out their backfield rotation.
Philadelphia Eagles bring in former second-round draft pick
According to multiple reports, including NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, the Eagles have signed former Green Bay Packers running back A.J. Dillon to a one-year deal.
Dillon, the Packers’ second-round selection from the 2020 NFL Draft, missed the entire 2024 season with a neck injury but has received medical clearance from top specialists.
After a season out with a neck injury, RB A.J. Dillon is on his way back to the NFL. Headed to the #Eagles on a one-year deal, source says. Dillon has received clearance from the top neck specialists in the country. pic.twitter.com/E1fdL5kpue
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 12, 2025
During his four-year stint in Green Bay (2020-2023), Dillon amassed 2,428 rushing yards on 597 carries with 16 touchdowns. He’s also proven himself as a capable receiver out of the backfield, recording 86 receptions for 763 yards and two additional scores.
Beyond his ball-carrying abilities, Dillon brings valuable pass-protection skills with his ability to pick up blitzing defenders.
Also an important part of AJ Dillon’s game if he’s to help on passing downs, especially with Will Shipley still developing as a blocker. https://t.co/fOgqXwIpmK
— Jeff McLane (@Jeff_McLane) March 12, 2025
Contract details remain undisclosed.
