The dawn of a new season may be upon us, but the Eagles aren’t done tinkering with their 90-man roster just yet. It was announced today that the team had cut former Broncos LB Corey Nelson and had signed an undrafted prospect in his place. Here’s everything you need to know.
The cut:
The decision to part ways with Corey Nelson wasn’t the trickiest for Howie Roseman. Brought in to compete for the starting outside spot which was vacated by Mychal Kendricks, Nelson never really proved himself worthy of sitting on that Throne. Kamu Grugier-Hill and Nate Gerry were the two dueling for that opportunity, while Nelson was lost in the mix of Training Camp battles.
The 25-year old was drafted in the seventh round of the 2014 draft and during his time with the Broncos, he amassed 88 tackles, one sack, six PBU’s and a fumble recovery. Nelson saw his role gradually increase after carving out a niche on special teams, tallying 18 total tackles on returns during that timespan.
With that in mind, it was interesting to see him play the most special teams snaps of any Eagles player in the first preseason game. Unfortunately, the 6’2, 225 lbs, linebacker couldn’t convert that exposure on a depleted special teams unit into production and as a result has been cut from the team.
Jimmy Kempski also noted that the Eagles will likely preserve a sixth-round selection in 2019 should they cut Nelson, a move which has now been completed.
The signing:
Replacing Nelson will be Wake Forest’s Jaboree Williams. The Eagles did have an open roster spot anyway after waiving Stephen Roberts on Saturday, but the roster once again now sits at 89 with this signing.
Williams actually attended the Eagles’ rookie minicamp so is familiar with the team already.
During his four year career at Wake Foest, the 6’0, 235 lbs, linebacker notched 141 tackles with 19.5 for a loss, 3 sacks and 2 interceptions.
In his final season, Williams ranked third on his team with 85 tackles and ended his career in style with an 11 tackle game against Texas A&M, where he also happened to pick off a pass and recover a fumble.
Look out for Williams to see plenty of action this Thursday when the Eagles play the Jets to round off their preseason campaign.
