The Philadelphia Eagles launched their three-day rookie minicamp on Friday, as the Birds took the first steps towards integrating some rookies into vital positions on a Super Bowl caliber team. The Eagles have a handful of draft picks, about 11 undrafted free agents and 17 tryout invitees set to participate, as the Eagles get an early look at the young skill players on their 90-man offseason roster.
With a vested interest in so many players, here are 7 rookies to keep an eye on this weekend:
Andre Dillard, OT, Rookie
The Eagles first-round pick will spend the weekend working on his timing and technique while getting familiar with the teams brass and terminology. Dillard is expected to only work at left tackle this weekend, with no pad work.
Miles Sanders, RB, Rookie
Sanders will have the weekend to himself, and with a limited number of running backs at the camp, he’ll get plenty of reps in the passing game and picking up the blitz.
J.J. Arcega-Whiteside, WR, Rookie
Arcega-Whiteside will use the weekend to build a rapport with, Clayton Thorson while learning the Eagles playbook and scheme design. Look for Arcega-Whiteside to make some highlight reel catches this weekend.
Clayton Thorson, QB, Rookie
The Eagles’ final pick in last month’s draft, Thorson has a chance to show Eagles coaches that he can be an NFL caliber signal caller. With Nate Sudfeld likely to walk in free agency with the chance to run his own team, Thorson’s a player to watch over the weekend.
Dorren Miller, WR, 1st Year
Miller a raw player with deep-speed and ability, will look to impress the coaching staff and maybe still Shelton Gibson’s reps.
Ryan Bates, T, Rookie
Bates, a 6-foot-4, 305-pound offensive lineman may be more suited inside at either guard position and has been taking snaps at center. With the ability to move well laterally and nice sized arms, Bates could be a valuable signing with the versatility to play all along the line.
T.J. Edwards, LB, Rookie
With Nigel Bradham and Kamu Grugier-Hill, all but locks to make the roster, Edwards could find a fit at middle linebacker with a great shot to make the team behind L.J. Fort.
