Eagles claim former Seahawks linebacker off waivers

The Philadelphia Eagles claimed former Seattle Seahawks linebacker D.J. Alexander off waivers, according to the Inquirer.

Given that the Eagles were 32nd in the waiver wire order (since the Eagles won the Super Bowl), this means that no other teams put a claim in on him.

Alexander was a fifth-round pick by the Chiefs in the 2015 NFL Draft. He overlapped with Doug Pederson in Kansas City for one season. The Chiefs traded Alexander to the Seahawks in 2017 in exchange for linebacker Kevin Pierre-Louis.

Through three NFL seasons, Alexander has logged eight defensive tackles, one forced fumble, and one safety in 44 games played (one start). He clearly hasn’t been counted on much as a defender.

Alexander is much more known for his special teams prowess. He led the Chiefs in special teams tackles with 11 as a rookie in 2015. Alexander blocked a punt for a safety that year as well. He also led the Chiefs in special teams tackles in 2016 with nine solo tackles, three assisted, and one forced fumble. His efforts earned him a spot as a late addition to the Pro Bowl. Alexander finished tied for second in special teams tackles with the Seahawks in 2017 with seven solo and one assisted.

It goes without saying that Alexander figures to provide a boost to the Eagles’ special teams unit.

The Eagles must waive one of the players that made their original 53-man roster in order to make room for Alexander.