Typically, the Philadelphia Eagles have played musical chairs with the practice squad through the first six weeks of the regular season. This time, they are taking a different approach.
The Eagles announced they have signed two new players to the practice squad who have never been on the team before. They signed edge rusher Titus Leo and tight end Jaheim Bell.
Leo was previously a sixth-round pick of the Indianapolis Colts back in 2023. He has also played on the New England Patriots, Tennessee Titans, and the Cleveland Browns. In four games with the Patriots in 2024, he racked up four tackles, one tackle for loss, and a pass deflection.
Bell is another former Patriot who was selected by them in the seventh round of the 2024 NFL Draft. In 15 games, he primarily played special teams, but did make two receptions for 20 yards, including a 19-yard completion.
What the moves mean for the Eagles coming up in the 2025 season
Looking at the two players, Leo is the more intriguing one as he fills a need for the team at the edge rusher position. Nolan Smith Jr. and Ogbo Okoronkwo are currently on IR, and Za'Darius Smith shockingly announced his retirement. The Eagles need more edge rushers, so in case one of them gets hurt, Leo will be the next man up.
Bell's signing suggests that Grant Calcaterra's oblique injury might be more serious than expected. The Eagles need some insurance in case Calcarterra will miss more time in the season.
Read more: Eagles fans won't get the Kevin Patullo response on offense they hoped to hear
These are not the Earth-shattering moves Eagles fans wanted to hear, but they are at least in important positions that could end up making a massive difference down the road. Or they could be cut in a day —who knows, given how Eagles general manager Howie Roseman operates.