Fever's Sophie Cunningham Gains New Fan in Eagles Running Back
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
Caitlin Clark, Sophie Cunningham, and the Indiana Fever had WNBA fans buzzing this week as they got into multiple heated incidents in a matchup against the Connecticut Sun. As Cunningham defended the Fever's star sharpshooter, it convinced Philadelphia Eagles running back AJ Dillon to make a purchase.
On Wednesday, Dillon took to social media to post a screenshot that proved he added a Sophie Cunningham jersey to a digital shopping cart. There was no context beyond that, but it's clear that Cunningham's recent chain of events made the veteran running back a big fan, if he wasn't already.
Similar to Cunningham, Dillon is linking up with a new pro team for the first time this season. As he hit the free agency market, Dillon signed a short-term deal with the Eagles to become one of Saquon Barkley's backups. According to reports, Dillon joined the Eagles on a one-year deal.
Sophie Cunningham #8 and Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever cheer from the bench against the Chicago Sky at the United Center on June 07, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.
Sophie Cunningham #8 and Caitlin Clark #22 of the Indiana Fever cheer from the bench against the Chicago Sky at the United Center on June 07, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.The 27-year-old running back entered the NFL as a second-round pick in 2020. He was selected by the Green Bay Packers out of Boston College. When he left the NCAA, Dillon had 4,382 yards and 38 touchdowns in 35 games. He also caught 21 passes for 236 yards and two scores.
Dillon appeared in 11 games with the Packers as a rookie. While he had a limited role in 2020, taking on just 46 carries, his workload increased a ton during year two. Despite not starting more than two games, Dillon picked up 187 carries. He rushed for 803 yards and reached the end zone five times.
Read More: Ex-Eagles Linebacker Blasts Jalen Hurts' Massive Snub on List
During the 2022 season, Dillon rushed for 770 yards and scored a career-high seven touchdowns. Last year, Dillon's production in Green Bay reduced once again, as he averaged a career-low 3.4 yards per carry. He finished the season with 613 yards and two touchdowns.
Read More: Eagles Star Reflects on Drastic Change in His Offseason Approach
The Eagles' backfield saw a key change behind Saquon Barkley this offseason. As Kenneth Gainwell hit the open market, he signed a contract to join the Pittsburgh Steelers. While the Eagles have the second-year rusher Will Shipley in the mix, more depth, competition, and experience at the position couldn't hurt. Howie Roseman brought on the former Packer to potentially take up the carries behind Barkley, who had an MVP-worthy season in the Eagles' backfield last year. Dillon could see some major benefits getting behind a dominant Philly line.
For more Philadelphia Eagles and NFL news, head over to Newsweek Sports.
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