Philadelphia Eagles: 5 Veterans That Must Prove They Still Have It in 2012

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Every year, the NFL sees training camp casualties—many of which happen to be veterans. The Philadelphia Eagles happen to have a few of these players on their roster heading into the 2012 season.

Some of these guys are on the roster bubble, while others are just looking to prove they can still play at an elite level in the NFL.

Rookies report to camp on July 29th. Some of the players on this list know that their fate will depend on how they perform during camp.

Here's an early look at some veterans on the Eagles' roster to keep an eye on heading into training camp.

DeMeco Ryans

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The Eagles made a big splash this offseason when they acquired middle linebacker DeMeco Ryans from the Houston Texans.

The Eagles didn't give up much in return for Ryans, which leads one to question the move.

Ryans has had a history of injuries over the last few years. He tore his Achilles tendon in 2010 and last year struggled with a nagging elbow injury.

Ryans is one of the best inside linebackers in the NFL—when he's healthy. The Eagles need him to be the guy that went to multiple Pro Bowls.

The Eagles have a lot invested in this season. Ryans and the middle of that defense are a major part of their ultimate success or failure.

Joselio Hanson

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Joselio Hanson needs to play well in training camp or he could be looking for a new job. The Eagles drafted Brandon Boykin, and he figures to make an impact.

He is a primary slot corner and is extremely versatile in the return game. This is also the same position Hanson, who is 31, plays. 

Paul Domowitch recently wrote an article for Philly.com about the battle for slot corner. He spoke with Hanson who said: (via Domowitch)

I’ve been competing [for a job] every year since I’ve been in the league,” he said. “That’s just the way it is in the NFL. I’m ready.

It will certainly be one of the more intriguing battles at Lehigh this summer.

 

 

O.J. Atogwe

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The Eagles made a really underrated move when they signed O.J. Atogwe back in June. He was released by the Redskins prior to his arrival in Philadelphia.

Nate Allen, Curt Coleman and Jaiquawn Jarrett have all seen time at the starting safety positions over the last few seasons, and they have played extremely inconsistent football.

Atogwe will have to come to camp in shape and show he can still play. If he does, there is a chance that he could end up in the starting lineup this season.

The worst-case scenario for the Eagles is that he provides depth for the secondary and becomes a veteran presence for the younger guys to learn from. 

Riley Cooper

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Riley Cooper has struggled to make any real impact since becoming a member of the Eagles in 2010. He has a big body and good athleticism, which led many people to think he could become an impact player.

Cooper is entering his third year in the league and will likely be fighting for the No. 4 receiver position on the depth chart.

His biggest threat is likely to be rookie Marvin McNutt. I think it's doubtful that the Eagles will keep more than five receivers on the active roster. Cooper will need to prove his worth and show he deserves be on the team.

Michael Vick

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Michael Vick is the most obvious player on this list. He's a polarizing figure on and off the field, and he has become the face of the Eagles franchise.

He was a sensation in 2010, leading the Eagles to the postseason and playing at an extremely high level. 2011 was much different, as Vick was often injured and struggled to play consistent football.

The Eagles' success primarily falls on the shoulders of Vick. He needs to stay healthy and play well throughout the entire season.

He needs to prove to the organization and fan base that he was worth the massive contract he signed.