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Eagles Analysis: 5 players that must show up against Ravens

By Matt Giraldi

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On Saturday evening, the Philadelphia Eagles will take on the Baltimore Ravens in the second preseason game for each team. While we are still 12 days away from the first cut-down date, Saturday’s game will likely mark the final game for 15 members of the current squad. With the third preseason game largely a dress rehearsal for the regular season, it’s imperative that all fringe players on the Philadelphia Eagles perform (and perform well) against the Ravens. For five players in particular, Saturday’s game is critical for their long-term future with the Eagles.

"“Let’s not hit the panic button on Cody right now…In his first exhibition game, he missed an extra point and a field goal. He’s hit three from 40, too.” said Kelly"

Chip Kelly believes second year kicker Cody Parkey can correct whatever is wrong with him. While it’s understandable for a kicker to be a bit rusty early on, Parkey’s struggles have continued into the joint practices with the Ravens this week. Saturday’s game will mark the final preseason game in 2015 where Parkey is kicking at home. Should the Eagles find the end zone, I fully expect PAT attempts rather than two point conversions. In the event Parkey falters Saturday, expect the Eagles to kick the tires on another kicker prior to facing Green Bay.


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Earl Wolff has received a lot of praise for a guy that has started seven NFL games in two seasons. Unfortunately injury woes are continuing to hamper Wolff’s career, and with the unexpected emergence of Ed Reynolds the back end of the secondary is suddenly crowded. Both Chris Maragos and Chris Prosinski contribute effectively on special teams. Walter Thurmond and Malcolm Jenkins are locked in as starters. Unfortunately for Wolff, I sense his time with the Philadelphia Eagles is nearing an end. After all, “You can’t make the club in the tub.”

For all the concerns at linebacker, the Eagles had some solid performances against the Colts. When you consider the fact that Mychal Kendricks, DeMeco Ryans, and Kiko Alonso didn’t play, it makes it even better. Unfortunately I cannot heap praise upon Najee Goode, who certainly did not add the “e” to his last name ala Joe Dirt. In fact, Goode’s performance against the Colts ran closer to dirt than good. Pro Football Focus graded Goode as the worst member of the Eagles on Sunday. In order for Goode to hold onto his playbook for another week, he’s going to need to correct the missed tackles and his ineffectiveness in coverage. Even then, I believe this is an uphill climb he’s not good enough for.

Kenjon Barner has never received an elongated opportunity to showcase his talent in the NFL. Against the Colts, Barner showed the world what he’s capable of and Chip Kelly is well aware.

"“If he continues to perform like that we have to fit him in,” Kelly added. “We are going to find a way to keep the best 53 players here but when you get an opportunity to do something you step up and do it. Everybody has their chance. If he continues to play like that he is going to put himself in the mix.”"

A 92 yard punt return touchdown and an impressive day toting the rock won’t secure him a roster spot, but it helps. The key for Barner will be to duplicate his success against a stout Baltimore defensive front seven. As noted in our “Q and A” with EbonyBird.com‘s Brett Foote, the Saints struggled against the Ravens for the first half. For Barner, he not only has a crowded backfield to contend with, but limited opportunities against a stout defense. I believe if roster cuts were today, Barner would be on the right side of the cuts. Another exceptional performance on special teams Saturday, and Barner might be around for the duration of the season.

Last but not least is Trey Burton. Burton provided a quality performance at tight end. While Zach Ertz recovers from surgery, the competition at tight end is heating up. Burton got the minutes with the “starters” and took full advantage of them. While the box score won’t highlight Mark Sanchez‘s errant throw, Burton torched the Colts secondary and was wide open for a touchdown. But what amazed me was the job he did on Kenjon Barner’s nine yard touchdown run. Burton lines up on the left side off the line of scrimmage in a two point stance. He immediately engages the right linebacker and seals the outside for Barner to have the running lane. This is outstanding blocking and something I’m looking forward to seeing in the future.

Next: Eagles Showing No Signs of Slowing Down

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