Five Eagles Who Will Make the Roster in 2014

Aug 29, 2013; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Joe Kruger (73) attempts to block a New York Jets kick during the first half of a preseason game at Metlife Stadium. The Jets won 27-20. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

3) Joe Kruger, Philadelphia Eagles Defensive End/Outside Linebacker

It was considered a steal, or at the very least extreme value, when Joe Kruger slipped to Chip Kelly and the Philadelphia Eagles with the 212th overall selection of the 2013 NFL Draft. Kruger has essentially been forgotten about by fans and media alike for consideration at one of either of his applicable defensive positions. While he was seeing time at defensive end before being placed on injured reserve during the preseason, outside linebacker could be an easier transition for Kruger due to his six foot six, 269 pound frame being nearly perfect size for a modern 3-4 pass rushing outside linebacker, especially given Coach Kelly’s proclamation that “bigger people beat up little people”. With only one of the outside linebacker positions completely locked down with a starter in Connor Barwin, it’ll be interesting to see what develops regarding Trent Cole and Brandon Graham and if one of the two is dealt elsewhere. Though the Eagles will assuredly address outside linebacker in either the Draft or free agency because you can never have too many pass rushers, there is serious opportunity for Kruger to make an impact going into his second season in either part of the defense.