Former Raider Rashad Baker was absent from practice today and now we know why. The Eagles have just announced his release, making this the second safety they have let go in four days. To take Baker's place, the Birds have signed rookie free agent Brandon Harrison, a safety out of Michigan who spent time on the Colts' roster before being released on July 29th.

Baker's release comes as a bit of a surprise, since he led the team in tackles (4) during the first preseason game against the Patriots. The 27-year-old was expected to be in the running for the backup safety spot with Macho Harris, Sean Jones, and Reshard Langford.