While Regulars Sit, Some Eagles Prepare To Fight For Roster Spot In Preseason Finale
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- The final preseason game is a yawner for most NFL fans. For many players, it may be their last chance to put on a uniform.
Nearly all of the regulars will be resting for the Eagles when they take on the Jets Thursday night at the Linc. While players such as Sam Bradford will watch from the sidelines, others will be fighting for roster spots. It is the last chance for players on the bubble to make an impression on the coaching staff, and Doug Pederson is hoping the Eagles who get playing time will be loose when they take the field.
"This is a great challenge for all the players in this football game to get one last substantial amount of reps and to really put themselves on tape," said Pederson. "I've made it known to the team that it's not just our team that's watching, it's the rest of the National Football League that's also watching. I want them to go out there and play carefree, play fast and have fun doing it. At the end of the day, they can hold their heads up and say they gave everything they had at that time."
Chase Daniel will get the start at quarterback and could play the entire first half on Thursday. While Daniel will be working with some players who have already secured spots on the roster, he knows others will get one last chance to make the cut. Daniel is taking the same approach as his head coach.
"I have full confidence in those guys," Daniel said. "I've told the young guys they're not only auditioning for this team, but you're auditioning for 31 other teams. They know that. They're going to put it on tape and we're going to have a great game."
One player who appears to have a roster spot secured is Josh Huff. The wide receiver has been impressive during the preseason and credits the coaching staff for giving him more opportunities this summer. Huff may see some playing time on Thursday night, and the receiver won't mind the extra work even though many of his teammates will be resting.
"I know what I've got to do," said Huff. "It's just to go out and do what I've been doing. I'll worry about me and worry about my details and worry about getting better and making this team."
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Many players will not make the team and will be forced to ponder their football futures. Teams have to reduce their roster to 53 players by Saturday afternoon. Some players may find their way back to the Eagles on the practice squad, but others will never get another chance in the NFL. Defensive Lineman Taylor Hart knows that rosters moves are part of the business end of the sport.
"It's obviously unfortunate for anyone to get cut," Hart said. "I'm trying to do the best that I can. That's all I can control."
