Philadelphia Eagles Roster News: Free Agent Visits and Practice Squad Updates
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As the Philadelphia Eagles return from their bye week, there are some notable roster developments to discuss. Let’s dive into the latest news surrounding the team.
Free Agent Visits:
LB Anthony Barr, OG Andrew Norwell, C Lecitus Smith, and TE Noah Togiai recently visited the Eagles as free agents, according to NFL insider Mike Garafolo. These visits indicate the team’s ongoing efforts to bolster their roster and add depth in key positions.
Anthony Barr:
UPDATE: Unfortunately, it seems that Anthony Barr will not be joining the Eagles. Recent reports suggest that he will be re-joining the Minnesota Vikings due to Jordan Hicks’ injury. Scratch Barr off the list for the Eagles.
Barr, a four-time Pro Bowler, is a recognizable name in the NFL. He was selected with the ninth overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft and spent eight seasons with the Minnesota Vikings before joining the Dallas Cowboys last year. While Barr didn’t establish himself as a standout player for the Cowboys, he still brings valuable experience to the table.
Andrew Norwell:
Once considered the prize of free agency, Andrew Norwell signed a record-breaking guard contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2018. However, he failed to live up to expectations during his four-year tenure in Jacksonville. Norwell then joined the Washington Commanders in 2022 but was released after just one season. Despite his recent struggles, the Eagles are interested in Norwell, possibly to replenish their offensive line depth.
Lecitus Smith:
Smith, a sixth-round pick by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2022 NFL Draft, made two starts in his rookie season before getting waived ahead of the 2023 season. He recently spent a brief stint on the Houston Texans’ practice squad. The Eagles’ interest in Smith likely stems from their need for more offensive line depth, and his versatility as a guard/center makes him an appealing option.
Noah Togiai:
Noah Togiai has had a journeyman career so far. He originally signed with the Eagles as an undrafted rookie free agent in 2020 but was claimed off waivers by the Indianapolis Colts. Togiai returned to Philly in 2021 and remained on the Eagles’ practice squad through the 2022 season. He then joined the Arizona Cardinals in the offseason and had a brief stint on the Las Vegas Raiders’ practice squad. With Dallas Goedert injured, the Eagles could benefit from adding Togiai’s tight end depth and his familiarity with the team’s scheme.
Practice Squad Updates:
In addition to the free agent visits, the Eagles made some moves regarding their practice squad.
Ross Pierschbacher:
Ross Pierschbacher is back in Philadelphia after a previous stint with the team. The Eagles signed him away from the Washington Commanders’ practice squad during the 2020 season. After being cut by the Eagles ahead of the 2021 season, Pierschbacher spent time as a practice squad player with the New York Jets and Detroit Lions. The Eagles brought him back to provide more depth at the center position, following the loss of Julian Good-Jones to Washington.
Kindle Vildor:
The Eagles recently released cornerback Kindle Vildor from their practice squad. This move suggests that the team currently feels satisfied with their cornerback depth and doesn’t require additional reinforcements at this time.
As the Eagles continue to navigate the season, these roster moves and practice squad updates reflect their ongoing efforts to strengthen the team. With the addition of experienced players and the retention of promising prospects, the Eagles aim to maximize their chances of success on the field.
(Note: The number of utilized practice squad elevations is listed in parentheses.)
Sources:
– NFL insider Mike Garafolo
– Blogging The Boys
– Pro Football Focus