The Philadelphia Eagles have promoted cornerback Craig James from the practice squad to the active roster.
The Philadelphia Eagles were quite active with transactions on Tuesday and Wednesday as they made multiple moves with their roster. When they assigned Malik Jackson to the Injured Reserve, the Eagles needed to add immediate depth up front by signing Akeem Spence on Tuesday.
Then on Wednesday, the Eagles brought back their recently waived tight end Alex Ellis after agreeing to an injury settlement with the veteran tight end, Richard Rodgers. There was an open spot left on the final roster, and the Eagles planned to fill the void with another cornerback.
Initially, many were under the belief that the Eagles would dip into free agency for an available defensive back. Perhaps, offseason acquisition Orlando Scandrick could make a return for cheap? Instead, though, the Eagles promoted one of their own from the practice squad in Craig James.
Why did the Eagles promote Craig James?
For starters, the Eagles have been quite impressed with James. The 2018 undrafted free agent might not get much time on the defensive side of the ball, but he does offer depth at the nickel cornerback position, plus could offer some help on special teams.
Considering that the Eagles have two reliable options at the slot in Sidney Jones and Avonte Maddox though, it seems doubtful James would even be their first or second option if needed. So why are they willing to promote James now rather than keep him stashed on the practice squad? It’s simple — another team around the NFL was attempting to poach him.
According to NJ Advanced Media’s Mike Kaye, another team around the NFL was willing to bring him onto their active roster. Being that James is already with the Eagles practice squad, Philly had the opportunity to promote him to their roster.
Therefore, they went through and did that. Now, they will have Ronald Darby, Rasul Douglas, Sidney Jones, Avonte Maddox, and James available this Sunday. We’ll see if the young corner gets activated though. If he does, he’s most likely there for emergency purposes.