I would like to first continue to gloat for my prediction of Eagles 24- Jets10. Although it wasn’t spot on this time around I did correctly predict the Jets first TD of the preseason and correctly predicted the Eagles would win big (and was only off by 4 points!). Now with that being said I stand by my original point in yesterday’s post about the fourth preseason game being far from meaningless. We learned a lot from last night’s game but I will just comment on a few.
Demetress Bell – last night was pretty much a nightmare for all Eagles fans. Demetress Bell is lost on the line. He was signed to replace all pro LT Jason Peters, but should not even be a second team player. His huge contract will save his ass on this cut day, but Demetress does not deserve one of the 53 spots on this roster. Look for rookie lineman Dennis Kelly, who has proven he can play the tackle position on the right or the left, to make the team and potentially play on the line this season. Fingers crossed that starting LT King Dunlap can fill the void.
Trent Edwards – Well Andy, “times yours.” Trent played very well in the preseason finale and I think that it will be a crime if he doesn’t get the QB3 spot on this team. He offers veteran leadership for Eagles back up QB Nick Foles, and will be a serviceable third string guy – something no other team in the NFL will have. Don’t get me wrong, if Edwards gets playing time this season, the Eagles have bigger issues than their QB3, but you have to like the fact that Edwards has been a large part of the Eagles 4-0 preseason. Unless there is a trade (not a bad option in my mind) for some late round picks – expect Edwards to be holding the chip board in Week 1.
Jaiquawn Jarrett – Jarrett, a second round pick in 2011 has had a rough preseason. He had a dismal first game but has stepped it up in the last three. He played well on special teams and on defense, looked like the physical safety they drafted. He may be bailed out due to hamstring problems that Oshiomogho Atogwe has been facing this preseason. The safety spot has been one that has seen a revolving door of starters in a past, and an injury prone veteran is not exactly what the Eagles need in this role. Jarrett makes the team, but only because the competition is below average.
Eagles RBs – In my opinion the Eagle’s backfield should be made up of all four RBs. The FB position has been so underutilized in the last 5 years and is unlikely to change in 2012. Why keep a FB who is going to see minimal time on the field? Rookie RBs Bryce Brown and Chris Polk deserve spots on this team. LeSean McCoy will see a majority of the carries but I think the backfield will see contributions from more than just McCoy. All four RBs make it and the two rookie Full Backs are cut Friday evening.
These are all speculations and these are decisions that usually include some intangibles such as leadership, attitude, and dedication – all things that can’t really be seen on TV. It will be interesting to see who makes the 53 man roster, as well as the 8 Practice Team spots come Friday at 9PM - I will be sitting front row to see how it goes. Check back over the weekend to see my review of who makes it and gets cut.
