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Now that a new NFL season is here, it’s time to kick off our September 2017 series of Philadelphia Eagles approval polls. Given the recent roster cuts, we’ll start with two of the team’s biggest decision makers: Howie Roseman and Joe Douglas. (NOTE: If you can’t view the polls, CLICK HERE. Or try viewing on desktop instead of mobile.)
The last time we checked in on Roseman’s approval was back in late May. Roseman earned a whopping 94% approval from the fans, which is the highest mark he’s had dating back to last September. The Sam Bradford trade clearly boosted his stock for that poll.
Surprisingly, Roseman wasn’t as active in the trade market during final cuts this year. Perhaps that’s because he already moves prior to then with five deals completed since the start of this year’s training camp. There was the Allen Barbre trade, the Jordan Matthews-Ronald Darby trade, the Matt Tobin trade, the Dexter McDougle trade, and the Jon Dorenbos trade.
These deals contributed to the shaping of the Eagles’ roster, as did Roseman’s decisions to cut and keep certain players. And there were some mildly “surprise” inclusions on Philadelphia’s 53-man with Shelton Gibson and Donnel Pumphrey among the bunch. It’s not shocking that Roseman didn’t want to part picks that he made in the 2017 NFL Draft, but it’s very hard to argue they earned their roster spots over other players. Roseman is clearly betting on potential with those players.
Roseman alleviated some concerns with the roster depth by signing a lot of the team’s bubble players back to the practice squad. This way the likes of Bryce Treggs, Dillon Gordon, Byron Marshall, etc. will remain in Philadelphia ... unless another team decides to sign them to their active roster, which is certainly possible.
But enough about the small potatoes. As far as the overall roster outlook goes, it’s very easy to make a case the Eagles improved on paper compared to last year’s team. The wide receivers look infinitely better — hey there, Alshon Jeffery and Torrey Smith. Philadelphia bolstered their defensive line and even added a starting quality cornerback.
Oh, and that Carson Wentz dude — you know, the guy that who will make or break Roseman’s career in Philly? — he’s looked pretty good this offseason. If he takes the next step, there’s really no reason to think that the Eagles can’t be a playoff contender this year.
That’s not to say the Eagles don’t have concerns. The offensive line struggled a little in the preseason. It’s too early to panic, but that’s something to watch. Along with that, the running back position isn’t particularly inspiring. Cornerback is still somewhat of a question mark despite the Darby trade.
I’m not shy to admit I’m one of Roseman’s biggest skeptics. Overall, though, I think he’s done enough to earn my approval (clearly very important) and yours as well.
Now forget everything I just said when the Eagles start the season 0-3.
Do you approve of the job Howie Roseman is doing as executive vice president of football operations of the Philadelphia Eagles? Vote now in the poll below and leave your thoughts in the comments. If you can’t view the poll, CLICK HERE.
Poll
Do you approve of the job Howie Roseman is doing?
This poll is closed
-
83%
Yes
-
7%
No
-
8%
Unsure
Roseman Approval Polls:
- May 2017 post-draft: 94% approval (Joe Douglas 93%)
- May 2017 pre-draft: 84% approval (Joe Douglas 77%)
- January 2017: 40% approval
- December 2016: 49% approval
- November 2016: 79% approval
- September 2016: 97% approval
- May 2016: 74% approval
- February 2015: 28% approval
- January 2015: 39% approval
- December 2014: 86% approval
- November 2014: 89% approval
- October 2014: 87% approval
- July 2014: 89% approval
- May 2014 (post-draft): 91% approval
- May 2014 (pre-draft): 85% approval
- April 2014: 79% approval
- March 2014: 97% approval
- January 2014: 87% approval
Do you approve of the job Joe Douglas is doing as vice president of player personnel of the Philadelphia Eagles? Vote now in the poll below and leave your thoughts in the comments. If you can’t view the poll, CLICK HERE.
Poll
Do you approve of the job Joe Douglas is doing?
This poll is closed
-
76%
Yes
-
5%
No
-
18%
Unsure