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One of the biggest concerns with the Eagles' roster as it currently stands is a perceived lack of offensive line depth.
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The latest Evan Mathis rumors are doing nothing to assuage these worries. While it remains to be seen how Philadelphia's guard situation plays out, here's a name to keep an eye on in the meantime: undrafted rookie free agent Brett Boyko.
ESPN Insider Adam Caplan recently raved about Boyko (no relation to Eagles Director of PR Derek Boyko) on Twitter:
"Eagles UDFA G/T Brett Boyko could seriously push for roster spot. Eagles gave him $20 K fully guaranteed ($10K SB, $10K fully gtd base). Boyko had a draftable grade from many teams, but suffered an elbow injury late last season, which was a caused him to drop out of draft. But he's fine now (looking good in practice). Was a 2nd round pick (BC Lions) in CFL draft. Brett Boyko at combine: 6'6 1/2, 305. 32-inch arms, which isn't as long as you would expect at his size, but good wingspan of 79 3/8. 9-hand, which is also considered to be small for his size."
The $20,000 bonus the Eagles gave to Boyko is more than they gave to any other undrafted free agent this year. That money hardly guarantees him a spot on the 53-man roster, but it does indicate the team has some hopes for him.
Here's a look back at his draft profile from NFL.com:
"Strengths - Good length. Keeps back flat in pass set and keeps head out of his initial punch. Intelligent player and well-liked within program, according to scouts. Four-year starter at left tackle. Can redirect and get some initial pop when he gets full extension. Has outstanding instincts and football intelligence to recognize defensive line games and blitzes.
Weaknesses - Upright and straight-legged out of stance. Plays with no leverage and has below-average play strength at point of attack. Hands look weak and sloppy in placement. Waist-bending run blocker with no hip snap or drive in run game. Lacks foot quickness to handle good edge rushers and slow to the perimeter when called on.
Bottom Line - Lacks the athleticism teams want from tackles and the strength they are looking for at guard, but his savvy should get him into a camp. His best position may end up at center."
The Eagles have been using Boyko as a guard. As you can see, he does not have the most impressive spider graph:
With Mathis currently out of the picture, Allen Barbre and Matt Tobin are the starting guards. Andrew Gardner could figure to be the top offensive lineman off the bench at both guard and tackle. Behind him, however, there are roster spots up for grabs. Perhaps Boyko can earn one of those. His name could be worth remembering when it comes to projecting the final 53-man roster.