3 Ways Philadelphia Eagles still benefit from Alshon Jeffery’s return

Once upon a time, Alshon Jeffery was a hero to Philadelphia Eagles fans.

Ever since his name started appearing on injury reports and he started making appearances on the field at Philadelphia Eagles practices, most ‘Birds’ fans have been curious about when a change in status might come for Alshon Jeffrey. For the most part, he’s been limited, but every time he’s spotted doing individual and team drills, it’s hard not to wonder what he could provide (or if he still can).

In Week 3 versus the Cincinnati Bengals, he was unavailable yet again, but with DeSean Jackson and potentially JJ Arcega-Whiteside joining Jalen Reagor as the unavailable and injured Eagles wide receivers, Philadelphia could definitely use the help.

It truly feels like an eternity since the last time we saw Jeffrey was on the field. A lot of bad press has surrounded him over the past few years. Between the dropped passes, injuries, and accusations of being a traitor, some of the Eagles’ fan base has turned on him. Is redemption possible? Can Jeffery prove after everything that’s happened that he can still contribute to this team? The answer to that question is yes.

Here are three ways that Alshon still helps these Philadelphia Eagles.

1. Alshon can still create separation from defenders.

Though speed isn’t Jeffrey’s calling card, he has always read defenses and used his body well. His routes are crisp, and these are big advantages that the man who was called his clone, JJ Arcega-Whiteside still lacks.

2. Alshon’s size and ability make him a great target for the Eagles’ offense.

At six-foot-three, Jeffery has never been shy at using his size to his advantage. In 12 personnel packages (one running back, two wide receivers, and two tight ends), he can use his size to haul in those tough fifty-fifty catches. He also has a lengthy wingspan to help him bring in off-target passes.

The question is will Philly still utilize ’12 personnel or go with more three wide-receiver sets with Dallas Goedert injured.

3. This Eagles offense needs all hands on deck.

Based on how the 2020 season has gone so far, it is just a harsh truth that whether you like Alshon or not, Philly needs every weapon that they have at their disposal on the field and producing. An extremely difficult stretch of games lies ahead, and now with Reagor. ‘JJAW’, Jackson, and Quez Watkins already on the shelf, Philly is in danger of going into their next game with only Greg Ward, John Hightower, and Deontay Burnett available.

As difficult a proposition as it may be for Eagles fans to swallow, Philly’s offense is better with ’17’ than without him. He’s more than likely going to be released next offseason, but he can help this team right now.