Bleeding Green Nation - NFL Roster Cuts 2017: Philadelphia Eagles UpdatesPhiladelphia Eagles rumors, news, analysis, roster updates, depth charts and more.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47571/bleedinggreennation_fave.png2017-09-05T09:00:05-04:00http://www.bleedinggreennation.com/rss/stream/160041352017-09-05T09:00:05-04:002017-09-05T09:00:05-04:00The Eagles roster construction is concerning
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<img alt="NFL: Miami Dolphins at Philadelphia Eagles" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/ERcnlTU-iG6InEPwX6Za9X_F1Rw=/0x0:3763x2509/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/56517855/usa_today_10245162.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Depth issues have a deeper meaning</p> <p id="BfQ9Bz">The roster the <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Eagles</a> will enter the 2017 season with is… strange. The Eagles went heavy at some positions and light in others, and it was assumed that waiver claims and possibly a trade or two would change the makeup of the roster. Instead, it remains exactly the same as it did on Saturday. As injuries happen (and <span>Sidney Jones</span> returns from it), the roster will change as the season progresses, as it does for all teams. But to start the season, the structure is odd to say the least.</p>
<p id="koLTwR">Every team has the same basic core that takes up the bulk of 53 man roster. What you do with the rest is dependent upon a team’s strengths, weaknesses, their opponents and their own philosophies. The Eagles have gone for volume in their weaknesses and are favoring developing players who may not contribute much in 2017 at the expense of depth elsewhere. It’s a questionable strategy.</p>
<p id="V7aOkr">Six linebackers have made the team. Expect that four of them won’t play a third of defensive snaps. <span>Mychal Kendricks</span> played just 27% of snaps last year, his playing time would have to increase by 20% for him to get enough playing time. It will take an injury or suspension for that to happen as two thirds of snaps in the NFL last year were in nickel or dime, which he doesn’t play. Kendricks, along with <span>Najee Goode</span>, <span>Kamu Grugier-Hill</span> and <span>Joe Walker</span> will be special teams players. That’s probably one too many, as evidenced by the Eagles carrying six last year, two of whom played virtually exclusively on special teams (Grugier-Hill and Goode, the latter of the two played one snap on defense) and <span>Stephen Tulloch</span>, who played no snaps on special teams and just 69 on defense. Nate Gerry cleared waivers due to a hamstring injury, that he was signed to the practice squad and not placed on IR means they expect him to be healthy soon, further reducing the need to carry a sixth linebacker to start the season.</p>
<p id="bjGwxw">Six wide receivers is unusual, but the volume isn’t the reason why it’s noteworthy. On merit, only five of the six receivers should have made the team, with <span>Bryce Treggs</span> having a good argument to have been the sixth. <span>Shelton Gibson</span> spent minicamp as one of the worst players on the roster, and in training camp and preseason didn’t do much to earn his roster spot beyond being a 5th round draft pick, which are rarely cut.</p>
<p id="6Big3C">Eight offensive linemen is light, but shouldn’t be a concern to start the season. The team will only dress eight on game day anyway, and with <span>Josh Andrews</span> and <span>Dillon Gordon</span> on the practice squad, they have injury replacements in house. However, it is a little concerning that <span>Chance Warmack</span>, a Jeff Stoutland favorite, made the roster despite not offering positional versatility or impressing in camp.</p>
<p id="Dy2BJd">Five running backs however makes no sense. Last season the fourth most used running back on each team averaged 16 rushing attempts. Only four teams had at least twice as many carries by their fourth runner, thirteen teams had their fourth running back in single digits. <span>Byron Marshall</span> was 5th among Eagles running backs in carries, he spent 14 weeks on the practice squad. Fifth string running backs are readily available during the season, as are one dimensional runners like <span>Corey Clement</span>. In an era where running the ball is becoming less and less frequent, loading the roster with them is counter productive.</p>
<p id="YzMvoU">Individually, none of these decisions are crippling. Draft classes aren’t made or broken in year one, and it is unrealistic to expect the back of drafts to provide instant contributors. But when they affect the makeup of a roster, that’s an issue, potentially a larger one of player evaluation. The Eagles are carrying five running backs because <span>Donnel Pumphrey</span> looks overmatched in the NFL. They’re carrying six wide receivers because Shelton Gibson can’t catch.</p>
<p id="ajJOy8">The Eagles aren’t losing the Super Bowl because they kept Corey Clement over a ninth offensive lineman, another young cornerback, or Billy Brown. But a supposedly rebuilding team isn’t helped by inactive draft picks, nor is a supposedly improving team helped when undrafted free agents out-perform draft picks who should be offering depth. After having the worst skill position players in the league last year, it’s a little damning that the team’s draft picks at those positions are at the bottom of the roster.</p>
https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/9/5/16253240/philadelphia-eagles-2017-53-man-roster-5-running-backsDave Mangels2017-09-03T15:27:16-04:002017-09-03T15:27:16-04:00Eagles roster moves and practice squad tracker
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<img alt="Miami Dolphins v Philadelphia Eagles" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/iG0azenTD4Y9RbjRfz_6YT71kXo=/1921x126:3168x957/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/56497975/838665678.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Read on for more news about the Eagles' roster moves.</p> <p id="7CEve4">The <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Philadelphia Eagles</a> officially <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/9/2/16246064/philadelphia-eagles-depth-chart-2017-53-man-roster-edition-nfl-cuts-positions-running-back-offensive?_ga=2.142092530.1306370976.1504031434-1771849419.1504031434">trimmed their roster to the 53-man limit</a> on Saturday<a href="http://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2014/8/30/6084355/philadelphia-eagles-roster-cuts-2014-official-depth-chart"> </a>but that doesn't necessarily mean the team is done making changes. The Eagles may release players and sign others before their Week 1 game against the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/washington-redskins">Washington Redskins</a>. That game takes place just one week from today, by the way!</p>
<p id="HNQ0Qp">Sunday’s action involves <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/9/2/16247806/nfl-waiver-wire-rules-interesting-claim-targets-order-eagles-philadelphia-cuts-news-how-it-works">the NFL waiver wire</a> and the formation of a 10-man practice squad. The Eagles rank 12th in the NFL waiver wire order so they will have to hope the 11 teams ahead of them don't want a player in order for Philadelphia’s claim to be successful. The waiver period ends at 12:00 PM ET today. </p>
<p id="VqIXPs">As far as the practice squad is concerned, <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/9/3/16248788/nfl-practice-squad-salary-rules-eligibility-roster-cuts-waiver-wire-philadelphia-eagles-claim-money">read this FAQ for more information on salary, eligibility, rules, etc</a>. Teams can officially begin forming practice squads starting after 1:00 PM EST.</p>
<p id="5mqTjH">Keep track of the Eagles roster moves below. Check back often for the latest news and updates.</p>
<h3 id="ehMk4g">EAGLES PRACTICE SQUAD MEMBERS</h3>
<p id="P2i433">TE Billy Brown</p>
<p id="Mreflv">RB Byron Marshall</p>
<p id="H4TSLU">DT <span>Justin Hamilton</span></p>
<p id="n0JXQD">OL <span>Josh Andrews</span></p>
<p id="MVTbwG">CB <span>C.J. Smith</span></p>
<p id="FJupKX">QB Nate Sudfeld</p>
<p id="M7OJ9C">WR Bryce Treggs</p>
<p id="Qy23Ov">WR Greg Ward</p>
<p id="19yXPE">LB Nate Gerry</p>
<p id="vtlao5">OT Dillon Gordon</p>
<h3 id="cPEKLA">CUTS, WAIVER CLAIMS, PRACTICE SQUAD NEWS, UPDATES</h3>
<p id="6ToJGU"><strong>[3:55 PM ET] - </strong>Eagles finalize their 10-man practice squad. <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/9/3/16249950/eagles-practice-squad-philadelphia-official-10-players-nate-sudfeld-former-redskins-quarterback">CLICK HERE FOR MORE DETAILS</a>.</p>
<p id="TInNaF"><strong>[3:18 PM ET] </strong>- Billy Brown is <a href="https://twitter.com/EliotShorrParks/status/904422675338158081">reportedly</a> going to be on the Eagles’ practice squad. There was thought Brown could be on the Eagles’ roster as the fourth tight end. ESP also reports Jomal Wiltz will not make the PS. So there’s five spots remaining.</p>
<p id="sjmXkX"><strong>[2:55 PM ET] </strong>- Byron Marshall is <a href="https://twitter.com/EliotShorrParks/status/904417337029353472">reportedly</a> signing with the Eagles’ practice squad. Nice to see him back considering he was significantly better than Donnel Pumphrey in the preseason. Six spots remain on the PS. </p>
<p id="eJPzIj"><strong>[2:43 PM ET] </strong>- Dane Evans won’t be brought back on the practice squad, per ESP. This means the Eagles will probably add some other developmental quarterback.</p>
<p id="ivnSGz"><strong>[1:37 PM ET] </strong>- Alex McCalister (waived/injured) <a href="https://twitter.com/caplannfl/status/904397840516042753">wasn’t claimed</a> so now he’s on the Eagles’ injured reserve list. Same goes for Tre Sullivan. </p>
<p id="wd9lgZ"><strong>[1:24 PM ET] </strong>- <span>Justin Hamilton</span> will be joining the Eagles’ practice squad, <a href="https://twitter.com/DraftDiamonds/status/904390296137584642">per NFL Draft Diamonds</a>. I’m surprised <span>Hamilton</span> didn’t get claimed because he had a good summer. The Eagles have really impressive defensive tackle depth.</p>
<p id="IWs1xw"><strong>[1:19 PM ET] </strong>- Sounds like both C.J. Smith (<a href="https://twitter.com/EliotShorrParks/status/904393017754361859">per ESP</a>) and Josh Andrews (<a href="https://twitter.com/TesslerSports/status/904392915270684672">per his agent</a>) will be on the Eagles’ practice squad. Andrews gives the Eagles, who only kept eight blockers, more depth up front. </p>
<p id="VlNklu"><strong>[1:06 PM ET]</strong> - The Eagles weren’t awarded any players on waivers. Welp. That’s boring. </p>
<p id="56ceWJ"><strong>[1:05 PM ET] </strong>- <span>Billy Brown</span> reportedly cleared waivers, per ESP.</p>
<p id="JqN7wZ"><strong>[1:04 PM ET] </strong>- <span>Aaron Neary</span> claimed on <a href="https://twitter.com/Rich_Hammond/status/904385932199002112">waivers</a> by the <a href="https://www.turfshowtimes.com/">Rams</a>. Might have been an Eagles practice squad candidate. He made the PS last year.</p>
<p id="HbpSpI"><strong>[12:49 PM ET] </strong>- Potential Eagles PS member?</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">CB Jomal Wiltz, cut by <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Eagles?src=hash">#Eagles</a> yesterday, has cleared waivers. Practice squad a possibility. Had a good camp.</p>— Eliot Shorr-Parks (@EliotShorrParks) <a href="https://twitter.com/EliotShorrParks/status/904385213266087936">September 3, 2017</a>
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<script async="" src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<p id="txARma"><strong>[8:38 AM ET] </strong>- While we wait for some real updates, make sure to check out these links: <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/9/2/16247402/eagles-roster-cuts-philadelphia-thoughts-running-back-donnel-pumphrey-shelton-gibson-wide-receiver">7 thoughts on the Eagles’ roster cuts</a> | <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/9/2/16246064/philadelphia-eagles-depth-chart-2017-53-man-roster-edition-nfl-cuts-positions-running-back-offensive">Eagles 53-man depth chart</a>.</p>
<h3 id="Xywm0d">LIVE TWITTER FEED</h3>
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https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/9/3/16248822/nfl-roster-cuts-news-trade-rumors-waivers-updates-practice-squad-tracker-eagles-philadelphia-wire-17Brandon Lee Gowton2017-09-03T13:17:21-04:002017-09-03T13:17:21-04:00Eagles weren’t awarded any players on waivers
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<img alt="Cleveland Browns v Philadelphia Eagles" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/FEKiZivgzjPQ_OA0Ptj8g7cDPOw=/0x52:2130x1472/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/56500193/604515484.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Well, that’s boring.</p> <p id="1AKTOB">The results of the NFL waiver wire claims are in! The <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Philadelphia Eagles</a> were awarded with ... no one. NFL insider Adam Caplan <a href="https://twitter.com/caplannfl/status/904388268975894528">reports</a> the Eagles did not (successfully) claim any players.</p>
<p id="uHMafg">Huh. </p>
<p id="byLYM2">It remains to be seen if the Eagles, who were 12th in the waiver wire order, put in any claims that went unsuccessful. </p>
<p id="NRzAB4">Last year, the Eagles added three players via waivers. </p>
<p id="RKbz1a">In any case, the Eagles will not be adding any players to their roster. That doesn’t mean they can’t make any changes to their current 53-man roster. </p>
<p id="jwoZU4">But maybe the Eagles <em>will</em> just sit tight and enter the regular season with their current group. That’d be a little surprising since they’re still carrying <em>five </em>running backs and only eight offensive linemen.</p>
<p id="yh68jQ"> ¯\_(ツ)_/¯</p>
<p id="ARjGh3">Not that waivers are over, the Eagles can begin to form their 10-man practice squad. Stay tuned to the BGN practice squad tracker (<a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/9/3/16248822/nfl-roster-cuts-news-trade-rumors-waivers-updates-practice-squad-tracker-eagles-philadelphia-wire-17">CLICK HERE</a>) for more updates on that. </p>
https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/9/3/16249522/nfl-waiver-wire-eagles-philadelphia-roster-cuts-2017-practice-squad-news-running-back-offensive-lineBrandon Lee Gowton2017-09-03T08:21:10-04:002017-09-03T08:21:10-04:00NFL Practice Squad: Salary, rules, eligibility, roster cuts, waiver wire, and more
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<img alt="NFL: Buffalo Bills at Philadelphia Eagles" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/42h-GL9fcE3BUP0AM0qvCKah2ME=/0x0:3053x2035/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/56497867/usa_today_10225007.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Here's everything you need to know about how the NFL practice squad works.</p> <p id="9TJFl6">The <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Philadelphia Eagles</a> officially announced their 2017 NFL roster cuts on Saturday to get down to the 53-man limit. Roster transactions aren't necessarily done yet, however. In addition to the <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/9/2/16247806/nfl-waiver-wire-rules-interesting-claim-targets-order-eagles-philadelphia-cuts-news-how-it-works">NFL waiver wire</a>, the Eagles can also still build a 10-man practice squad starting at 1:00 PM EST today on Sunday, Sept. 3.</p>
<p id="ycY07w">In simple terms, the practice squad consists of 10 extra spots for players to practice with an NFL team but not participate in games. The practice squad is useful for a number of reasons. First, it helps teams hold onto developmental players with upside who aren't quite yet deserving of a spot on the 53-man roster. Second, it provides the team with extra bodies in practice. </p>
<p id="X8zRoY">Read on for complete details about the NFL practice squad.</p>
<h3 id="S7LNSE">Practice squad salary</h3>
<p id="LexUYY">Practice squad players earn a minimum of $7,200 per week, which totals $122,400 for all 17 weeks of the regular season. Note that there is no maximum practice squad salary. A team can pay a practice squad player however much they want to entice the player to stay on their practice squad. Practice squad salaries <em>do</em> count against a team's cap space, however.</p>
<h3 id="6mqWfA">Eligibility</h3>
<p id="05qJNI">In short, all rookies (draft picks or undrafted) have practice squad eligibility. So do most other young players.</p>
<p id="j2KDT9"><a href="http://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2014/8/19/6046395/nfl-practice-squads-expand-10-players-eligiblity-rules-cba-news">The NFL and NFLPA agreed to some practice squads eligibility changes</a> a few years ago in order to make the rules more inclusive. </p>
<p id="lELBQ4"><em>First, a player must have a minimum of six games – up from the current three games – on a Practice Squad in order for that season to count as one of the player’s three permissible seasons of Practice Squad service.</em></p>
<p id="gBKdiy"><em>Second, each club will be permitted to sign a maximum of two Practice Squad players who have earned no more than two accrued seasons of free agency credit. Absent this exception, a player who has earned one or more accrued seasons would not be eligible for a Practice Squad unless the player spent fewer than nine games on a club’s 46-player active list in each of his accrued seasons.</em></p>
<p id="r9p2jW"><em>All other practice squad rules under Article 33 of the 2011 Collective Bargaining Agreement will remain in effect during the 2014 and 2015 seasons.</em></p>
<p id="hW9PPf"><em>(Article 33: The Practice Squad shall consist of the following players, provided that they have not served more than two previous seasons on a Practice Squad: (i) players who do not have an Accrued Season of NFL experience; and (ii) free agent players who were on the Active List for fewer than nine regular season games during their only Accrued Season(s). An otherwise eligible player may be a Practice Squad player for a third season only if the Club by which he is employed that season has at least 53 players on its Active/Inactive List during the entire period of his employment.)</em></p>
<h3 id="aakoql">Who will be on the Eagles practice squad?</h3>
<p id="hI1wVN">The Eagles’ practice squad will mostly consist of young players they released yesterday. A few spots might be used on players from other rosters. </p>
<p id="yiDk5H"><strong>Projected Eagles 10-man Practice Squad:</strong></p>
<p id="i9pIuY">(Developmental QB), RB <span>Byron Marshall</span>, TE <span>Billy Brown</span>, WR Greg Ward, OG <span>Darrell Greene</span>, C <span>Tyler Orlosky</span>, OT <span>Dillon Gordon</span>, LB Nate Gerry, LB <span>Don Cherry</span>, CB <span>C.J. Smith</span></p>
<p id="xtPKYY">Some of these players might be claimed on waivers before the Eagles can sign them back to their practice squad. Something to keep an eye on.</p>
<h3 id="0idD48">Practice squad rules</h3>
<ul>
<li id="LicDFI">Each NFL team can have up to ten players on their practice squad.</li>
<li id="F0mMRL">Practice squad players only practice with the team. They do not play in games or count against the active 53-man roster. </li>
<li id="LGachd">Not all players are eligible to be signed to NFL practice squads. </li>
<li id="tI3V2L">Practice squad players are paid per week and can be released at any point during the season.</li>
<li id="XALOgb">Practice squad players are free to sign with other NFL teams, assuming they are signed to the 53-man active roster. A practice squad player cannot be signed to another practice squad unless he is first released.</li>
<li id="Fron5p">A practice squad player can not sign with their team's upcoming opponent, unless they do so six days before the upcoming game or 10 days if their team is currently on a bye week.</li>
<li id="ZQSvAh">If a practice squad player is signed to the active roster, they will receive a minimum of three paychecks, even if they are released before spending three weeks with the team.</li>
<li id="3J16q0">In order to be signed to a practice squad after being released, a player must first clear through waivers.</li>
</ul>
https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/9/3/16248788/nfl-practice-squad-salary-rules-eligibility-roster-cuts-waiver-wire-philadelphia-eagles-claim-moneyBrandon Lee Gowton2017-09-02T20:06:33-04:002017-09-02T20:06:33-04:00How the NFL waiver wire works
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<img alt="Cleveland Browns v Philadelphia Eagles" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/AZQaCPxwfYC9P4IRhGRyioibaNA=/0x0:2351x1567/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/56494305/602357468.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Who will be claimed? </p> <p id="EWrSyg">The <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Philadelphia Eagles</a> trimmed their roster down to the 53-man limit on Saturday but that doesn’t mean they are done with cuts just yet. The Eagles could very well make some more moves tomorrow after waiver claims are revealed after 12:00 PM on Sunday, September 3. </p>
<h3 id="hHgEaA">How it works</h3>
<p id="oB5iJf">When a team releases a player with less than four years of service, they are subject to the waiver process. Normally when a player is released, waivers runs the next day. For roster cuts, all players run through waivers on Sunday, whether they were released on Friday or Saturday.</p>
<p id="DvKyIr">The process involves a priority list ranking teams for claiming players. From the first day of the league year until the conclusion of Week 3 of the 2017 regular season, the priority is based on draft order. This means that the <a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Cleveland Browns</a> are the No. 1 team on the waiver priority list, while the Eagles are No. 12. This means that if the Eagles want to take a shot on a young player, they have to put a claim in on him, and then cross their fingers and hope that the 11 teams ahead of them do not put in a claim.</p>
<p id="l69hrO">You might be used to the waiver process in your fantasy football league. The NFL waiver process is different in that the No. 1 team can claim as many players from waivers as they want, and they retain priority. The Browns essentially get first dibs on every player. They will stay in that position through Week 3 of the regular season.</p>
<p id="e0sT3j">Any player with at least four years of service that is released is not subject to the waiver process. They immediately become free agents and can sign with any team.</p>
<p id="3etDSG">The Eagles used the waiver wire after final cuts last year. Philadelphia claimed <span>Bryce Treggs</span>, <span>Terrence Brooks</span>, and <span>Kamu Grugier-Hill</span>. KGH is still on the team. Treggs and Brooks were both seriously pushing for roster spots this summer. </p>
<p id="TS9Qhb">If the Eagles are awarded any players from waivers, they’ll need to make more cuts from their current roster to make room for the new additions.</p>
<h3 id="9pqlUR">Eagles waiver wire targets</h3>
<p id="PZpIEq">I’d think the Eagles will focus on running back and offensive line depth. Last year, two of the players the Eagles claimed were rookies. This is the chance for Philadelphia to get their hands on a player(s) that might have missed out on in the 2017 NFL Draft. The veteran player the Eagles claimed last year had an obvious connection to Joe Douglas. Something to keep in mind.</p>
<p id="ElH4v8">Here are some names of interest: RB <span>Matt Jones</span>, RB <span>Alex Collins</span>, RB <span>Jeremy McNichols</span>, RB <span>Kenjon Barner</span>, C <span>J.J. Dielman</span>, CB <span>Pierre Desir</span>, OL <span>T.J. Clemmings</span>. </p>
https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/9/2/16247806/nfl-waiver-wire-rules-interesting-claim-targets-order-eagles-philadelphia-cuts-news-how-it-worksBrandon Lee Gowton2017-09-02T19:05:20-04:002017-09-02T19:05:20-04:007 thoughts on the Eagles’ roster cuts
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<img alt="Buffalo Bills v Philadelphia Eagles" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/owbmYa8XsdnW8d9Fpe7VBjP_7d8=/32x0:2681x1766/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/56493883/834229644.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>The Eagles aren’t done yet.</p> <p id="nrqcVn">The <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Philadelphia Eagles</a> made their roster cuts today. I have some thoughts about what they did. Let’s get right to it.</p>
<h3 id="4dtMSk">1 - Explaining every cut that was made</h3>
<p id="TdlVmy">Let’s start with my thoughts on each individual cut.</p>
<p id="Qmk8VT">DE <span>Alex McCalister</span> (waived/injured) - Reverts to the Eagles’ injured reserve list if he goes unclaimed. They could try to stash him there again this year.</p>
<p id="kPHp1Y">S Tre Sullivan (waived/injured) - Same thing as McCalister for this rookie.</p>
<p id="N5hYqp">LB Nate Gerry - The most notable Eagles cut since he was a fifth round pick. I always thought it was going to take Gerry some time to transition from linebacker to safety. I think he’ll end up on the practice squad since he’s a developmental guy and not someone another team is going to be eager to scoop up as an immediate contributor on their 53-man roster.</p>
<p id="SIAhek">TE <span>Billy Brown</span> - A little surprised he was cut. Intriguing size and athleticism. Might not make it through waivers. If he does, he’s a practice squad candidate.</p>
<p id="gNK3pB">WR Bryce Treggs - Unfortunate he couldn’t make the team. The injury he suffered in the first preseason game might have hurt him. Treggs had a good summer and will almost certainly be picked up on waivers.</p>
<p id="SXUcjx">WR Greg Ward - Perfect candidate for the Eagles practice squad. His background as a former quarterback gives Philadelphia an extra practice arm. Projects as a backup slot receiver.</p>
<p id="2V0yhb">CB C.J. Smith - It looked like he might push for a starting job at one point. Then he fell down the depth chart following the acquisitions of <span>Ronald Darby</span> and <span>Dexter McDougle</span>. Practice squad candidate.</p>
<p id="5Q3gGK">OL <span>Dillon Gordon</span> - One of the Eagles’ more surprising cuts because the team liked him as a versatile fullback/blocking tight end/sixth offensive lineman. But Gordon really struggled near the end of the preseason and now he’s gone. </p>
<p id="ogd0N3">OG <span>Darrell Greene</span> - Greene bounced on and off the practice squad last year. I thought he showed some improvement this summer, but it wasn’t enough.</p>
<p id="WRuXTN">DT <span>Justin Hamilton</span> - Deserved to be on the roster but got cut up in a numbers crunch at defensive tackle. I’d be surprised if he doesn’t get claimed.</p>
<p id="mX9aCB">CB Jomal Wiltz - Undrafted rookie corner was never seriously pushing for a roster spot.</p>
<p id="FPWojA">RB <span>Byron Marshall</span> - Looked better than <span>Donnel Pumphrey</span> (and arguably even <span>Corey Clement</span>) but still got cut. </p>
<p id="VEn4xR">C <span>Aaron Neary</span> - No need to keep three centers when Isaac Seumalo can also play there. </p>
<p id="S5jlTC">OG Dallas Thomas - Arguably played better than Chance Warmack. Has the versatility to play guard or tackle. Cut anyway.</p>
<p id="T4OjLc">OL <span>Taylor Hart</span> - Looked better at OT than DT, actually. Might be worth a practice squad spot if he was younger.</p>
<p id="4okY3b">OL <span>Josh Andrews</span> - Nearly missed the entirety of the summer with a hand injury.</p>
<p id="Hthppb">P <span>Cameron Johnston</span> - Hard to knock off the GOAT, <span>Donnie Jones</span>.</p>
<h3 id="vzsHqL">2 - Five running backs?!</h3>
<p id="SgqNj3">Five. Five running backs. </p>
<p id="eeSohu">Yes, I know the Eagles aren’t done making cuts. But really, five running backs? </p>
<p id="Q1DVIe">None of the Eagles’ five running backs are ideal lead back types. The group as a whole is pretty uninspiring.</p>
<p id="pE9VV1"><span>LeGarrette Blount</span> had a strong year with the <a href="https://www.patspulpit.com/">Patriots</a> 2016 but didn’t look so great in the preseason. Wendell Smallwood has talent. It remains to be seen if he’s a full-time guy, though, and it’s hard to ignore his injury issues. Corey Clement is just a guy. He ran hard this summer, but he’s not much more than a third or fourth string running back. Donnel Pumphrey was simply not one of the best 53 players on the Eagles’ roster. He doesn’t look ready to contribute in the NFL right now.</p>
<p id="mHf7YR">It’ll be interesting to see what the Eagles do at this position. Maybe there’s someone on waivers (<span>Matt Jones</span>?) that they like. Maybe they trade or cut one of these players.</p>
<p id="RN9YI4">For now, five running backs seems weird and, quite frankly, wasteful. </p>
<div id="5MBtPk">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Eagles have a RB situation that the Ravens were keeping an eye on. <a href="https://t.co/BOSjVnZYPN">https://t.co/BOSjVnZYPN</a></p>— Jeff Zrebiec (@jeffzrebiecsun) <a href="https://twitter.com/jeffzrebiecsun/status/904073293912821760">September 2, 2017</a>
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<h3 id="5PB9lc">3 - <span>Shelton Gibson</span> deserves some credit</h3>
<p id="YhAMA7">Gibson rebounded after dropping a lot of passes early on in camp. He’s still had some drop issues, as seen in the final preseason game, but he wasn’t struggling <em>as</em> much by the end of the summer. I’d argue Treggs deserved to make the roster over him, but the Eagles are probably betting on his potential. I’m sure they also didn’t want to cut <em>two</em> fifth-round draft picks.</p>
<h3 id="6iBNS0">4 - The 2017 NFL Draft class is looking like a mixed bag</h3>
<p id="sHbPKq"><span>Derek Barnett</span> looks like a stud and he’s only 21. <span>Mack Hollins</span> showed he can play and be a special teams contirbutor. Elijah Qualls earned his spot on the roster.</p>
<p id="Ed4xJd">As for everyone else, we’ll see. Gibson doesn’t contribute on special teams so he’ll likely be inactive on game day. Pumphrey will be inactive. Gerry isn’t on the team. <span>Rasul Douglas</span> is probably best suited as a backup/role-player for now. </p>
<p id="XbPoE7">Sidney <span>Jones</span> is really the make-or-break factor for this draft class. We’ll get a better idea of his ability to contribute when he’s fully healthy next year. </p>
<h3 id="gjdGzN">5 - The Eagles seem to like their linebacker depth.</h3>
<p id="c20GBL">Some have considered linebacker depth to be a concern for the Eagles. Talk is cheap, but Howie Roseman praised the team’s linebackers on Saturday evening.</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="hT8Aym">Well, I think it's a credit to the other guys at that position. When you look at the guys that we kept beyond the three starters, [LB] Joe Walker had a good preseason. He's another guy coming off a knee injury. We were really bummed when he got hurt last year. He's got physical traits. It's hard to find Mike linebackers who is have shock, and he's able to do that.</p>
<p id="599GLd">Then you look at [LB] Najee [Goode]. Najee has versatility. He can back up really both the outside positions and play inside, and [he is] really a huge part of our special teams. It's important for us to be good on special teams.</p>
<p id="UV2a4o">And then [LB] Kamu [Grugier-Hill], when we look at Kamu, we think he has a chance to be not only one of the better special teams players on our team, but in the league. That was a tough one. That was one of the last ones we did right there. We understand it's a transition for him and it's going to take some time. But it was just the nature of the numbers game.</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="cX4f8y">That praise for Kamu is especially effusive.</p>
<p id="WCmwhq">It’s always possible the Eagles shake things up at this spot, but maybe they just really like their guys.</p>
<h3 id="N3EjBc">6 - The Eagles look light on the offensive line</h3>
<p id="y9pNrM">The Eagles kept 11 offensive linemen last season. This year they kept ... eight. The tackle spot is especially concerning. <span>Jason Peters</span> turns 36 in January and <span>Lane Johnson</span> is one suspension away from being banned for two years. Halapoulivaati Vaitai is the only real backup tackle. </p>
<p id="7at9gO">The Eagles have an offensive line target or two they like on the waiver wire. We’ll see if they end up getting their guy(s). </p>
<p id="dTtQds">Speaking of waivers ...</p>
<h3 id="HZfLFW">7 - The Eagles will likely be active on the waiver wire tomorrow</h3>
<p id="k2VJzy">Last year, the Eagles claimed three players on the waive wire: Bryce Treggs, <span>Terrence Brooks</span>, and <span>Kamu Grugier-Hill</span>. Treggs really pushed for a roster spot this year. Roseman said Brooks would have likely been on the team this year if they didn’t trade him for Dexter McDougle, who did make the team instead. Kamu is obviously still on the roster.</p>
<p id="u8rtPT">The point here is that, while the Eagles likely won’t find a superstar on waivers, they could still get some useful player(s). </p>
<div id="fhtf4Z">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">One personnel director just predicted that he believes Sunday will see "a record amount of waiver claims." So final rosters are not final.</p>— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/904089763497615360">September 2, 2017</a>
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<p id="j3XwCN"></p>
https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/9/2/16247402/eagles-roster-cuts-philadelphia-thoughts-running-back-donnel-pumphrey-shelton-gibson-wide-receiverBrandon Lee Gowton2017-09-02T16:35:58-04:002017-09-02T16:35:58-04:00Official: Eagles sign Dexter McDougle to contract extension
<figure>
<img alt="New York Jets Rookie Minicamp" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/KUfe4BL97707np90ltnmmRlZcus=/0x0:2160x1440/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/56492615/491357799.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Rich Schultz /Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Here to stay.</p> <p id="EUyYX4">Howie Roseman is handing one-year contract extensions out like candy. After re-signing <span>Steven Means</span> earlier this week and <span>Chance Warmack</span> earlier today, the <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Philadelphia Eagles</a> have officially signed cornerback <span>Dexter McDougle</span> to a one-year extension. </p>
<p id="rXYYBz">The Eagles traded <span>Terrence Brooks</span> to the <a href="https://www.ganggreennation.com/">New York Jets</a> in exchange for McDougle six days ago. He made his Eagles debut against his former team in the fourth preseason game on Thursday evening. The newcomer didn’t look too bad.</p>
<p id="w6jQki">McDougle figures to be the Eagles’ fifth cornerback. For now, he’s stuck behind the likes of <span>Ronald Darby</span>, <span>Jalen Mills</span>, <span>Rasul Douglas</span>, and <span>Patrick Robinson</span> on the depth chart.</p>
<p id="Mn9md3">With McDougle slotted to play at nickel cornerback, it’s possible he could get some playing time if/when Robinson struggles or gets hurt. </p>
<p id="iidChg">The 26-year-old was set to be an unrestricted free agent after this year. Now he’s under contract through the 2018 season. </p>
<p id="lwp37c">For a complete breakdown of the Eagles’ 53-man depth chart, <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/9/2/16246064/philadelphia-eagles-depth-chart-2017-53-man-roster-edition-nfl-cuts-positions-running-back-offensive">click here</a>. </p>
https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/9/2/16247276/dexter-mcdougle-eagles-contract-extension-sign-trade-cornerback-slot-nickel-jets-philadelphia-cutsBrandon Lee Gowton2017-09-02T16:21:10-04:002017-09-02T16:21:10-04:00First look at your 2017 Eagles 53-man depth chart
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<img alt="NFL: Philadelphia Eagles at New York Jets" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/MnlxIe-5XRN4JFr0LkvyBAs2Zwc=/0x0:3654x2436/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/56492497/usa_today_10250890.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Get a look at who’s in and who’s out.</p> <p id="Xopfco">The <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Philadelphia Eagles</a> have made their <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/9/2/16245988/nfl-roster-cuts-eagles-official-waive-17-players-53-man-limit-philadelphia-news-running-back">roster cuts to get down to 53 players</a>, shaking up the depth chart in the process. You can find an (unofficial) updated depth chart below. This list reflects the team’s latest cuts. Keep in mind the Eagles might not be done making moves over the next few days. </p>
<h3 id="UjFMet">OFFENSE</h3>
<p id="I823c8">Quarterback — Carson Wentz, <span>Nick Foles</span> </p>
<p id="qs3Iof">Running back — <span>LeGarrette Blount</span>, Darren Sproles, Wendell Smallwood, Donnel Pumphrey, <span>Corey Clement</span> </p>
<p id="6Uz6bT">Wide receiver — <span>Alshon Jeffery</span>, Torrey Smith, <span>Nelson Agholor</span>, <span>Mack Hollins</span>, <span>Marcus Johnson</span>, <span>Shelton Gibson</span></p>
<p id="p9rzfY">Tight end — <span>Zach Ertz</span>, <span>Brent Celek</span>, <span>Trey Burton</span></p>
<p id="fPC1Bg">Offensive tackle — Jason Peters, Lane Johnson, Halapoulivaati Vaitai</p>
<p id="mOuPb1">Offensive guard — Isaac Seumalo, <span>Brandon Brooks</span>, Chance Warmack </p>
<p id="fNGXv3">Center — Jason Kelce, Stefen Wisniewski</p>
<h3 id="CPOEaT">DEFENSE</h3>
<p id="GeYRke">Defensive end — <span>Brandon Graham</span>, <span>Vinny Curry</span>, <span>Derek Barnett</span>, Chris Long, <span>Steven Means</span></p>
<p id="N3Y5Ph">Defensive tackle — <span>Fletcher Cox</span>, Tim Jernigan, <span>Beau Allen</span>, Destiny Vaeao, Elijah Qualls</p>
<p id="NmpoA7">Middle linebacker — <span>Jordan Hicks</span>, Joe Walker</p>
<p id="CnqZKK">Strongside linebacker — <span>Nigel Bradham</span>, <span>Najee Goode</span></p>
<p id="aNvTWx">Weakside linebacker — Mychal Kendricks, <span>Kamu Grugier-Hill</span></p>
<p id="EOKhoz">Cornerback — <span>Ronald Darby</span>, Jalen Mills, Patrick Robinson, <span>Rasul Douglas</span>, Dexter McDougle</p>
<p id="Hedu0h">Safety — <span>Malcolm Jenkins</span>, Rodney McLeod, <span>Corey Graham</span>, Chris Maragos, Jaylen Watkins</p>
<h3 id="rQIgmB">SPECIAL TEAMS</h3>
<p id="6yMDu9">Kicker — Caleb Sturgis</p>
<p id="iPKBZp">Punter — Donnie Jones</p>
<p id="eIXnKf">Long snapper — <span>Rick Lovato</span></p>
<h3 id="ut37jK">RESERVE/NON-FOOTBALL INJURY</h3>
<p id="2Da3eD">CB Sidney Jones</p>
<h3 id="DbdKNO">PRACTICE SQUAD</h3>
<p id="4lBEbL">The <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Eagles</a> can start signing players to their 10-man practice squad after 1:00 PM ET on Sunday, Sept. 3. </p>
https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/9/2/16246064/philadelphia-eagles-depth-chart-2017-53-man-roster-edition-nfl-cuts-positions-running-back-offensiveBrandon Lee Gowton