Philadelphia Eagles: 5 Under The Radar Players To Watch For
By Owen Lloyd
The Philadelphia Eagles have, surprisingly, been in rebuilding mode this offseason. Major additions such as quarterback Sam Bradford and running back DeMarco Murray have captured the attention of the media, but several other Eagles look set to play a big part in 2015.
Let’s take a look at some of the more “under the radar” players who could be big players for the Philadelphia Eagles in 2015.
1) Matt Tobin, OL
Tobin is entering his third season as an Eagle, since signing as an undrafted free agent in 2013. The Philadelphia Eagles coaches are said to be high on Tobin, who was on the field for 13 games in 2015. Should guard Evan Mathis be traded this offseason, Tobin looks set to be competing for the vacancy on the offensive line. Tobin plays with a chip on his shoulder, after his college career started as a walk on at Iowa and going undrafted in the 2013 NFL Draft. He has learnt his trade with the Eagles and figures to compete for a rotational spot on the offensive line at the very least.
2) Seyi Ajirotutu, WR
Ajirotutu makes this list for two reasons. Firstly, he figures to add depth at the tail end of a young wide receivers unit, which is a little lacking in NFL experience. Secondly, but most importantly, he is a special teams stud who will add more firepower to coach Dave Fipp’s special teams unit who lost a key contributor in James Casey this offseason. Ajirotutu is an experienced special teams player, who will be a key contributor on kick coverage. Look for him to become an Eagles’ favorite on the “third team”.
3) Brian Mihalik, DE
This seventh round pick from Boston College (237 overall) stands out because of his monstrous size. At 6’9″, the defensive end will bring power and height to the Eagles defense. If he can contribute during training camp, Mihalik could beat the odds and land on the fringes of the Philadelphia Eagles roster. It will take a big effort from the man-mountain, but Mihalik’s tape shows that he can play ball. He’s definitely one to keep an eye on in the coming months.
4) Ryan Mathews, RB
It seems odd to see Mathews on this list, but the former San Diego Charger has been the invisible man so far this offseason. Whilst fellow running back DeMarco Murray has taken the limelight, few words have been spoken about the other new Eagle in the backfield. Ryan Mathews has the potential to be a big player in key spots for the Philadelphia Eagles in 2015. His one-cut style will lend itself to the running game that Philadelphia Eagles Head Coach Chip Kelly wants to employ and it wouldn’t be a surprise to me if Mathews plays a far bigger role than many are anticipating in 2015.
5) Jerome Couplin III, DB
It is well known that the Philadelphia Eagles need some new blood at safety. Jerome Couplin has been around the NFL, spending time with practice squads of the Detroit Lions and Buffalo Bills. Couplin joined the Eagles in December 2014 and was inactive for the final three games of the season, but will be able to use that valuable experience to help him learn the playbook quickly and compete for a slot amongst the Philadelphia Eagles’ defensive backs.
Next: What Should The Eagles Expectations Be For 2015?
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