Philadelphia Eagles: A way-too-early guess on the final 53-man roster

Overview:

Here’s what we think (or want) the Eagles to do on defense. Since most NFL offenses feature three receivers most of the time, we’re thinking Philly goes with ten defensive backs. That’s six corners and four safeties.

With that being said, we’ll go with a nine-man defensive line rotation (five defensive ends and four defensive tackles). Here’s how things shake out.

Defensive end (6)

Verdict:

Derek Barnett, Brandon Graham, Vinny Curry, Shareef Miller, Chris Long (if he stays), and Josh Sweat. Joe Ostman is in if Long hangs it up.

That’s a nice lineup, and several guys will be in the hunt for a roster spot throughout the preseason, but Philly’s got a lot invested into Graham, Barnett, and Miller. They’ll make the team, and we figure Chris Long decides to give it another go. If not, he’s out, and Sweat is in. The Eagles’ brass and coaches seem to love him and Joe Ostman.

Defensive tackle (4)

Fletcher Cox, Malik Jackson, Timmy Jernigan, Hassan Ridgeway

Verdict:

This is one of the more impressive position groups on paper. The names Fletcher Cox, Malik Jackson, and Timmy Jernigan just kind of pop out at you. Hassan Ridgeway was a fourth-round selection who should make good on what may be his final chance at NFL stardom.