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USA Today Sports Media Group
USA Today Sports Media Group
Sport
Glenn Erby

How the expansion of the NFL’s practice squads could impact the Eagles

As the sports world awaits live the renewing of several sports league the Eagles and the rest of the NFL are looking towards July 28, when the Birds will convene at Lincoln Financial Field for the start of training camp.

The Eagles spent what would have been OTAs and minicamps holding a virtual offseason program due to the coronavirus pandemic. With protocols in place to keep players and coaching staff safe, the NFL and the NFLPA are considering expanding practice squads from 12 to 16 players.

The initial increase to 12 players was definitely beneficial to the Eagles, but with the possible addition of four more players, Howie Roseman will have plenty of roster options to work with this coming season.

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How the increase impacts the Eagles:

The Eagles found a few gems in the undrafted free agent process and Howie Roseman put together one of the NFL’s strongest classes.

The headliners were Cincinnati RB Michael Warren, Michigan State DL Raequan Williams, Montana LB Dante Olson, and Baylor DB Grayland Arnold, all draftable guys.

Warren will now have the opportunity to carve out a role on the Eagles roster without Howie Roseman risking losing him to another team looking to sign a running back. Raequan William’s chances of developing and sticking around increased as well.

The practice squad increase could be huge for a player like former Baylor star cornerback Grayland Arnold, who could now have the chance to develop and eventually work his way onto the Eagles roster in 2021 at a value contract.

The young slot cornerback was electric in the big-12 last season and could allow Howie Roseman to spend money elsewhere while stockpiling young undrafted talent.

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