Philadelphia Eagles: Way too early 53-man roster prediction

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Nov 1, 2020; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles defensive end Brandon Graham (55) reacts after a fumble recovery against the Dallas Cowboys during the first quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

Defensive End

Brandon Graham, Derek Barnett, Josh Sweat, Ryan Kerrigan, Tarron Jackson

The Eagles carried six defensive ends last season, but their depth is notably worse here in 2021, making the decision to cut it down to five a rather easy one.

Brandon Graham, Derek Barnett, and Josh Sweat all played significant snaps for the team last year, and all three are locks for the 53-man roster. There was some talks of trading Barnett earlier this offseason, but it probably won’t be happening anytime soon now.

Sweat is a player I would definitely keep an eye on as someone who could start leaching some of Barnett’s snaps away this season.

Ryan Kerrigan getting signed to a one-year deal locks him into the team’s DE4 role this season, replacing the hole left by Vinny Curry, and sixth-round pick Tarron Jackson should round out the team’s depth as the DE5.

Fan-favorite Joe Ostman could push someone like Jackson during training camp, but similar to the before mentioned wide receiver position, my guess is that the team’s new-look coaching staff is going to prioritize rookies this offseason. Jackson was a very productive player at Coastal Carolina, and likely already has a higher ceiling than Ostman.

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