9 Rookies Make Philadelphia Eagles Roster

The Philadelphia Eagles have announced their 53-man roster, and it includes nine rookies—two of whom were not drafted. The defense got the top three draft picks. The offense got three drafted and two undrafted players.

One player will likely play on defense and function as a kick returner.

Name	Position	Draft Round
Fletcher Cox	DT	1
Mychal Kendricks	LB	2
Vinny Curry	DE	2
Nick Foles	QB	3
Brandon Boykin	CB/KR	4
Dennis Kelly	OT	5
Bryce Brown	RB	7
Chris Polk	RB	None
Damaris Johnson	WR	None

Two drafted players did not make the cut: offensive lineman Brandon Washington and wide receiver Marvin McNutt. It would not be surprising to see both of them end up on the practice squad.

It was thought that Polk and Brown were competing for the third and final running back position, but since they both played so well in preseason, they were both kept. So the team is currently carrying four running backs in addition to a fullback.

The roster count is a little light on the offensive line and wide receiver positions and a little heavy at defensive end, running back and cornerback. So you can bet the Eagles brain trust is working the phones and watching who other teams are cutting to try to do a little better balancing.

With Riley Cooper still out of action, there are only four healthy wide receivers. Perhaps before he returns, the team will scheme some plays where one of the running backs lines up in the slot. And the rookie running backs will probably be called on to help out in special teams as well.

The highest remaining priority might be to obtain a reserve experienced interior offensive lineman.

By my quick count, there are 24 players who have two years of experience or less, so this is a very young team. Who knows, the Eagles might be set for a nice stretch over the next few years if many of these young players deliver. 

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