The Detroit Lions have traded running back D’Andre Swift to the Philadelphia Eagles following their first-round draft pick of Alabama’s Jahmyr Gibbs. Lions General Manager, Brad Holmes, has been making waves by reshaping the team through multiple trades. This is now the second time in as many weeks that Holmes has arranged a quality landing spot for a former player to continue their career.

The Eagles will send a 2025 fourth-round pick and additional draft pick compensation to the Lions in exchange for Swift, as reported by NFL Network Insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero.

A standout from St. Joseph’s Preparatory Academy in Philadelphia, D’Andre Swift is heading home.

Swift Trade Follows Gibbs Selection

Trading Swift seemed inevitable after the Lions chose the dynamic Gibbs with the 12th overall pick in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft. With similar skill sets, Swift would have been a backup to newly signed David Montgomery and Gibbs.

General Manager Brad Holmes hinted at the potential trade on Thursday night, saying, “it’s still early.”

Swift’s Struggles in Detroit

Swift, a former second-round pick, showcased a dual-threat ability during his three seasons in Detroit, but faced challenges with injuries. In his time with the Lions, he racked up 1,680 yards and 18 touchdowns on 364 carries, and 1,198 receiving yards and seven additional scores on 156 catches.

Holmes and head coach Dan Campbell appeared less than impressed with Swift, who often tried for big plays instead of taking available yards. His injury history was also a concern, with Swift missing at least three games each season in Detroit.

Swift Joins Eagles’ Backfield Mix

With a base salary of $1.774 million, the 24-year-old Swift enters the final year of his rookie contract. He joins the defending NFC East champs, who are seeking to replace the production of former running back Miles Sanders, now with the Carolina Panthers. The Eagles have also added Rashaad Penny, Kenneth Gainwell, Boston Scott, Trey Sermon, and Kennedy Brooks to their backfield.

Eagles Banking on High-Upside, Injury-Prone Players

General Manager Howie Roseman’s strategy appears to be accumulating former high draft picks with impressive pedigrees who have struggled with injuries. Swift and Penny, both acquired this offseason, have shown home-run potential when healthy. Behind a strong offensive line, either player could reach their full potential in 2023.

A committee approach in Philadelphia could help maintain the health of these players throughout the season. The Eagles now have a formidable backfield to build on their NFC East title defense. With the acquisition of D’Andre Swift, the Eagles have bolstered their running back corps, adding even more talent and depth to an already promising group.

“A Blue-Collar Worker with Superstar Talent” at Georgia

Swift is yet another Georgia Bulldog that the Eagles have acquired through the NFL Draft.

Swift’s three-year tenure at the University of Georgia was nothing short of extraordinary. Joining the Bulldogs in 2017, he aimed to make a name for himself in the competitive Southeastern Conference (SEC). His high school coach described him as “a blue-collar worker with superstar talent,” a mindset he carried throughout his college career.

Family, Football, and a Love for Philly

Swift’s passion for football started early in life. His grandfather playing a significant role in shaping his love for the game. To honor his late grandfather, Swift writes “rest in peace” or “Pop Pop” on his wrist tape, gloves, or cleats before every game.

Family is essential to Swift, and his close relationship with his father, Darren Swift, is a testament to that. Darren, a “body transformation expert,” has gained a social media following for his impressive physique. Swift’s drive and talent made him stand out in high school, where he played with a style reminiscent of Barry Sanders.

St. Joseph’s Prep: A Foundation for Success

Swift attended St. Joseph’s Preparatory School, a prestigious institution known for producing successful professional athletes. Notable alumni include Victor Hobson, who played five seasons in the NFL, and Cleveland Browns coach Kevin Stefanski.

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For more from our Detroit Lions beat writer, Matt Broder, check him out on Twitter here: @mattbro21

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