After the Philadelphia Eagles' Week 18 loss to the Washington Commanders, general manager Howie Roseman and the staff performed some roster gymnastics to make the playoffs, taking on the San Francisco 49ers.
Roseman and company swapped some defensive backs on the practice squad, while also placing a promising rookie on injured reserve. The Eagles opted to return veteran cornerback Parry Nickerson to their practice squad while releasing cornerback Ambry Thomas.
Thomas has been with the Eagles since August on their practice squad, after being released by the Minnesota Vikings. He appeared in 42 games (11 starts) from 2021 to 2023 with the San Francisco 49ers.
Eagles make some changes to the secondary
Nickerson returns to the Eagles for the third time this season after joining the team in 2024. After being released by Philadelphia during training camp's final cuts, Nickerson spent a month on the practice squad before signing to the active roster. After being released in late October, Nickerson returned to the Eagles' practice squad the next day and was released once more last month. He's appeared in five games this season, recording two tackles on 72 snaps with 60 special teams and 12 defense.
The most disappointing transaction is the Eagles' placing rising defensive back rookie Brandon Johnson on injured reserve. Johnson has slowly raised his status with strong special teams play. An ankle injury forced him out of action in Week 18, most likely ending his season before the Eagles' playoff run. Johnson played in three games with one start, recording one pass breakup and three tackles.
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With the Eagles adding veteran experience in Nickerson, the team could be looking to elevate him in Johnson's place, given his past performance. The Eagles are scheduled to take on the San Francisco 49ers in the first round of the NFC Wild Card on Sunday, January 11, at 4:30 pm EST in Philadelphia.