Roster Bubble Players Challenging Howie Roseman’s Decisions.
The goal for any NFL player on the roster bubble is to challenge the decision-makers who will determine their future.
In Philadelphia, several players are giving GM Howie Roseman a lot to consider. While not all of them may make the initial 53-man roster, their strong performances have secured either a potential spot on the practice squad with the Eagles or the chance to be picked up by another team.
Here are six players who are likely to make Roseman carefully consider their cases before the final roster cuts on August 27:
**Edge Rusher Patrick Johnson:** With Josh Sweat, Bryce Huff, Brandon Graham, Nolan Smith, and rookie third-round pick Jalyx Hunt all but guaranteed spots on the 53-man roster, it’s challenging to keep a sixth edge rusher. However, Johnson has shown significant improvement, is in excellent shape, and could be more effective than Hunt if the Eagles need a fifth rusher. Additionally, Johnson’s contributions to special teams make him a strong candidate to force Roseman to consider keeping an extra edge rusher.
**Safety Tristin McCollum:** The Eagles have several potential backups to starters C.J. Gardner-Johnson and Reed Blankenship, including veteran cornerbacks James Bradberry and Avonte Maddox, as well as young, promising players Sydney Brown and Caden Sterns. While Brown and Sterns may not be ready for Week 1, and a possible trade involving Bradberry could open a spot, McCollum has excelled in the preseason and could benefit from such changes.
**DT Thomas Booker:** Booker has stood out both as an athlete and a bull rusher. However, the numbers game is tough for him unless the Eagles are willing to part with Marlon Tuipulotu. At worst, Booker might end up on the practice squad.
**WR Joseph Ngata:** Ngata has outperformed the more-publicized rookie Johnny Wilson in recent games. While Ngata may not have the same ceiling, his strong work ethic and positive influence on his teammates make him a valuable candidate for the practice squad.
**TE E.J. Jenkins:** Jenkins, a former college receiver with a profile similar to Darren Waller, showed his receiving potential with a notable catch against the Patriots. Standing 6-foot-6 and 245 pounds, he also has the size to develop as a blocker. With veterans C.J. Uzomah and Albert Okwuegbunam not making a strong case for the TE3 spot, Jenkins could be a valuable addition.
**OL Darian Kinnard:** A 2022 fifth-round pick by the Kansas City Chiefs, Kinnard was signed by Roseman and has provided solid play at both right guard and right tackle during practices and preseason games. Jeff Stoutland, the Eagles’ offensive line coach, values Kinnard highly, which could influence Roseman’s decision.
