Eagles officially cut cornerback to make room for Dannell Ellerbe signing

The Philadelphia Eagles signed free agent linebacker Dannell Ellerbe to a one-year contract, according to an official announcement from the team on Monday morning. The news was first revealed on Sunday.

In order to make room for Ellerbe on the 53-man roster, the Eagles released cornerback Dexter McDougle.

The Eagles acquired McDougle in a trade with the Jets back in August. Philly sent backup safety Terrence Brooks to New York in the deal.

McDougle played 54 defensive snaps (9.3%) and 135 special teams snaps (49.8%) in eight games this season. Along with play special teams, the 26-year-old served as the main backup to slot corner Patrick Robinson.

McDougle didn’t play poorly, but he became expendable now that starting corner Ronald Darby is expected to return against the Cowboys this Sunday.

The Eagles figured they’d rather have some extra linebacker depth since Jordan Hicks is out for the year. Ellerbe is a veteran player who could serve as an upgrade over Joe Walker.