Who Should I Start? Patrick Taylor or Kenneth Gainwell

Sunday, January 5, 10:09 PM

San Francisco 49ers running back Patrick Taylor Jr. produced well filling in for rookie Isaac Guerendo (knee), who was carted off the field in the first quarter. The former Memphis Tiger took 17 carries for a career-high 109 yards and caught one of four targets for 12 yards through the air. Taylor Jr. looked much better on Sunday than in any other of his limited opportunities in 2024 with physical, one-cut running. The fact that he got any game time at all this year was an improbability in the preseason, as he had four running backs ahead of him on the depth chart before they all went down with injuries at various times. Taylor Jr. finishes the year with 39 carries for 183 yards and one touchdown. He'll be an unrestricted free agent this summer.

Monday, January 6, 9:38 AM

Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell saw increased usage in Sunday's 20-13 win over the New York Giants but struggled to make an impact. Gainwell logged 11 carries for just 14 yards and added two receptions for nine yards. Rookie Will Shipley outperformed Gainwell, posting 32 rushing yards and 35 receiving yards. With Saquon Barkley set to return for the playoffs, Gainwell will return to his usual backup role. While his Week 18 output was disappointing, Gainwell has shown the ability to contribute effectively when needed. The Eagles will rely on their depth as they prepare to host the Green Bay Packers in the wild-card round.