Trade And Injury Force Eagles To Shuffle Defensive Backs
By Ed Benkin
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- When Brandon Boykin was traded, JaCorey Shepherd appeared to be ready to step in as the nickel cornerback. However, a season-ending injury to Shepherd has thrust a host of other defensive backs into the spotlight.
With Boykin in Pittsburgh and Shepherd on the sidelines, several players are battling for time inside. Chip Kelly indicated Jaylen Watkins, E.J. Biggers and rookie Eric Rowe would all compete for the nickel coverage spot.
"We're going to rotate a lot of guys in there," said Kelly. "Watkins will be in there, Eric Rowe will be in there, Biggers will be in there, but we had already planned for the first two weeks of just using corners in there, anyway."
Watkins, Biggers and Rowe all saw time in the nickel position during Tuesday's training camp workout. Watkins struggled during his rookie year last fall, but says he is a different player this season.
"Everything's slowed down," Watkins said. "Obviously, you're more accustomed to the speed. You have confidence in the second year with the defense. You have more confidence as a player going against guys. All those things factor into becoming a second-year player."
Rowe played cornerback at Utah during his senior year after playing three years at safety. Rowe talked about the adjustment he's had to make now that he is seeing time in the nickel position.
"You have more help," said Rowe. "You have more backer help and more safety help inside. It's a lot more running. Now, they've got new route concepts that I have to study. Other than that, there's not much of a difference when it comes to man."
All three players will likely get an equal opportunity to win the job. Kelly has indicated many of the spots on the depth chart may not be settled until right before the start of the regular season. Players such as Watkins know they have an opportunity to take over in the nickel coverage spot, and make a greater impact on defense this season.
"I feel like I had an opportunity before JaCorey's injury," Watkins said. "We all are rotating. The way the coach coaches here, everybody has an opportunity. The five best guys when we go nickel are going to get on the field."
Workouts will continue for the Eagles on Wednesday.
