Home Runner

The Eagles on Wednesday introduced a pair of St. Joe’s Prep alums poised to enhance an already prolific offensive repertoire.

Olamide Zaccheaus, an intriguingly diverse slot receiver signed in free agency’s third wave, was first made available to the media.

Shortly thereafter, the team unveiled running back D’Andre Swift, its latest addition to a suddenly souped-up backfield.

Acquired on Day 3 of the NFL Draft via the Detroit Lions in exchange for a 2025 fourth-round pick and a swap of 2023 seventh-rounders, Swift will effectively serve as the engine that motors the multi-dimensional Philadelphia ground game.

ITB PHOTO: New Eagles RB D’Andre Swift should be the headliner of an improved, deep RB corps.

“A lot of emotions,” Swift said when asked about the trade that brings him less than eight miles from where he played his high school football.

“A lot of emotions all at once, but now that it’s settled down a couple days ago, I’m excited and happy. New opportunity, new chapter in my life and my career. And I’m excited to be back home.”

Swift, who rushed for 542 yards and five touchdowns on 99 carries last season along with 389 yards and three receiving touchdowns,  became expendable following Detroit’s free-agent acquisition of veteran David Montgomery and the selection of Jahmyr Gibbs at No. 12 Thursday evening.

Jettisoned from the team that drafted him with the No. 35 overall pick just three years earlier, Swift highlights a loaded backfield featuring Rashaad Penny, Kenny Gainwell, Boston Scott, and Trey Sermon.

While usage and roles have yet to be determined, one can surmise that Swift’s home-run hitting potential, pass-catching prowess and three-down ability makes him the headliner.

The compactly built 5-foot-8, 212-pound Swift, who struggled to stay on the field in Detroit, should thrive among a deep rotation, preserving his health.

Running behind the league’s best offensive line also figures to catalyze his resurgence.

“I’m just taking it day by day,” Swift said. “I’m so focused on coming in here and just working every day, just earning my keep. Whatever role they see fit for me, off the way that I come to work every day, will be something I earn.”

Given Swift’s prestigious pedigree and skill set, expectations for him will inevitably be elevated.

While some might view the heightened pressures of playing in Philadelphia as taxing, Swift is embracing it.

“I’m excited,” he beamed. “I’m happy. Grateful for the opportunity to be a part of such a great organization with tremendous history. A team that’s connected – [I could tell] just from being in the building these couple days – that’s together, loves each other.

“So, I’m excited to build relationships with the guys in the locker room and just be a piece to the puzzle.”

– Andrew DiCecco (@AndrewDiCecco) is a Staff Reporter/Content Producer for InsideTheBirds.com.