The Eagles will definitely have a role in the NFC playoff picture following a dominant 30-13 win over the Broncos in Denver.
With 10 games played, we’re behind the halfway point of the 2021 season and it’s time to start looking towards the stretch run.
Along with adjustments and changes that need to be made, there are several Philadelphia players who are deserving of expanded roles on both sides of the ball.
1. CB Andre Chachere
Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
The former Colts cornerback has seen most of his snaps on special teams but did see time in the Eagles blowout win over the Lions and one defensive snap against the Raiders.
An aggressive cornerback with length, Chachere is a third-year veteran who could provide depth on the outside going forward, as Darius Slay has been nicked up over the past two weeks.
2. RB Jordan Howard
(Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)
Howard isn’t officially signed to the Eagles roster and with Miles Sanders returning, could be placed on waivers. If Howie Roseman chooses to keep Howard on the roster, Nick Sirianni has to continue utilizing the hard running veteran who hits the hole with an explosion and is the Eagles’ offensive identity from a physicality standpoint.
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3. DB K’Von Wallace
(AP Photo/Matt Slocum)
Fresh off a blocked field goal in the Eagles win over the Broncos, Wallace is healthy and his versatility is needed in Gannon’s defense. A special teams standout, Wallace offers a winning pedigree and physicality from the safety position.
4. LB Shaun Bradley
(AP Photo/Bart Young)
Like Wallace, Bradley has become a special teams dynamo and a player that Jonathan Gannon has to get on the field.
Currently leading the NFL in special teams tackles, the former Temple product is fast, physical, and plays with instinct. Undersized at linebacker, the Eagles have to get creative with getting Bradley added snaps.
5. RB Kenneth Gainwell
(Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)
Like Jordan Howard, Gainwell brings a value and versatility that both Miles Sanders and Jordan Howard lack.
The Eagles are dominating teams with the running game and there’s no reason why Gainwell can’t have his moments in the offense as a pass-catcher while continuing the first mantra.
6. LB Patrick Johnson
Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports
A SAM linebacker and a rookie, Johnson can be just as productive as Genard Avery and he’s a younger player as well.
A Seventh-round pick and a defensive end-turned-linebacker, Johnson makes plays in coverage and graded out high in the two snaps he played against the Broncos. He’s more athletic than Avery and could be an upgrade.
7. DE Tarron Jackson
Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
A rookie defensive end, Jackson earned an 86.9 grade for his nine snaps against the Broncos and he’s provided plenty of pressure when provided the snaps.
With Ryan Kerrigan not a part of the future and Derek Barnett still undisciplined, Jackson could be in line for more snaps.
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