The ability to explode for extra yards or play with burst is essential in the NFL, and undrafted rookie running back ShunDerrick Powell has made enough plays through Week 1 of Eagles training camp to leave Saquon Barkley impressed.
Powell had a record-setting collegiate career at North Alabama and Central Arkansas, and according to Brooks Kubena of The Athletic, the shifty running back has become a player to watch.
ShunDerrick Powell, an undrafted rookie running back from Central Arkansas, made an impressive cut to the outside in 11-on-11 drills with the third-team rotation. He burst into the open and was chased down after an explosive gain. Barkley ran out to meet Powell and hollered in encouragement. Starting defensive tackle Jordan Davis sacked (well, stared down — there’s no contact) Hurts in red-zone drills on the last play of practice.
Powell rushed for over 4,000 yards in his collegiate career with 42 total touchdowns. He had eight 100-yard games in 2024. The two-time FCS All-American is a three-down running back and potential special-teams standout.
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Philadelphia has a big three of Barkley, AJ Dillon, and Will Shipley, with Powell and Montrell Johnson Jr. competing to force the Eagles to carry four running backs on the roster.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Can ShunDerrick Powell develop into a Saquon Barkley clone?