Getting to know the Eagles: DB Eddie Whitley

Since the trade of Sheldon Brown in 2010, the Eagles have had plenty of struggles at cornerback. With four new cornerbacks on the roster and a new defensive coaching staff, the unit is in a rebuilding phase. One of the defensive backs that has been added to the team is Eddie Whitley.

Whitley was hybrid defensive back at Virginia Tech. As a true freshman, Whitley played mostly special teams. During his sophomore season, the Fayetteville, North Carolina native racked up 18 tackles and two pass breakups. Whitley played mostly free safety as a junior and was collected 80 tackles, two interceptions and six pass breakups. In his senior season, Whitley played more than 800 snaps at safety for the Hokies and registered 83 tackles, two interceptions, a forced fumble and four pass breakups. He was named to the All-ACC Second Team for his performance during his final season at Virginia Tech.

The 6-foot, 188-pound defensive back went undrafted during last year's draft. He was signed by the Dallas Cowboys but was cut just before the start of the season. The Eagles signed Whitley to the practice squad late in the season and he was resigned to a contract following its conclusion.

Whitley is an intriguing player due to his versatility. He has the speed to play cornerback but also has the size and tackling ability to play safety. He faces steep competition for the final cornerback spot, with Brandon Hughes, Curtis Marsh, Trevard Lindley and Jordan Poyer all fighting to make the roster. Whitley still has practice squad eligibility and could be placed on the unit in case of injury. It is important that Whitley cause turnovers and stick out on special teams in the preseason in order to fend off his fellow defensive backs.

Here are some highlights from Whitley's stint at Virginia Tech:

For more information on the latest editions to the Eagles' roster, before sure to check out the "Eagle's Player Profiles" page.