As media outlets are running around like headless chickens trying to find out as much information on the Eagles coaching situation as possible, the birds thought they would add some more gasoline to the fire by signing seven players from their practice squad to futures contracts.
A futures contract basically means that the players are signed for the upcoming season, essentially claiming the rights to players who they think could well make a buzz so no other team has the chance to.
For context, Ed Reynolds was among those signed to this sort of deal last year when the roster limit expanded to 90 and this season has made an impact on gameday.
Kevin Monangai RB– Monangai recently resigned with the Eagles practice squad following being released due to overcrowding. The Villanova product had a touchdown in pre-season to go with 126 yards and went on to announce his return on social media before the team confirmed the move. An interesting talent who may get a better look under a new head coach.
Freddie Martino WR– Martino ended pre-season with a touchdown and 100 yards after joining the birds for training camp. He stayed on the practice squad all season and it would have been great to see him take a few snaps late in the season, but still a very quick receiver who has previous experince with Atlanta.
Brett Boyko OT– An undrafted rookie free agent who at 6’6 and 300 pounds could really be a threat in a much needed position. Scouts applauded his strong Football IQ and ability to pick up Blitzes whilst his athleticism is often called into question. After starting four years at Left Tackle, he could well be nice depth piece for the Eagles.
Malcolm Bunche G – A fringe player when talking about the final 53-man roster, Bunche was assigned to the practice squad after a fairly impressive pre-season. His ability to play both Guard and Tackle give him some much needed versatility but apparently the staff at UCLA were disappointed with his production.
Travis Raciti DE – Another undrafted rookie free agent who could well be an interesting player to keep an eye on depending on the Eagles cap situation. He has great straight line speed and his work ethic was praised highly in the weeks before the draft. With Thornton set to “test the waters of free agency” Raciti could well be competing for a fringe 53 spot next year.
Deontae Skinner LB – A linebacker with previous experience in New England, Skinner played in 8 games during the 2014 season and amassed 16 tackles and a single sack. Definitely an interesting depth option going forward.
Brandon Hepburn LB – Hepburn is a familiar face on the practice squad by now and will likely continue to follow that trend. Hepburn was placed on Injured Reserve back in August which likely stunted his progress but the Eagles saw enough of him in training camp to keep him on after starting him both inside and outside.
