Instant analysis: Eagles bring back preseason hero Marken Michel

NFL
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – AUGUST 29: Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Marken Michel (80) makes a catch during the Preseason National Football League game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the New York Jets on August 29, 2019 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. (Photo by Joshua Sarner/Icon Sportswire)

If you weren’t excited for Eagles preseason football before, there’s a good chance you will be after reading this. On Tuesday afternoon, the Eagles announced that they had waived/injured WR Michael Walker after he picked up an injury during the day’s practice. While that’s obviously sad, the player they brought back in his place should turn a few heads – Marken Michel.

Michel had an explosive summer for the Eagles in 2019 where he caught a beautiful pass from Nate Sudfeld and took it to the house for a 75-yard touchdown in the Eagles preseason opener. Many had hoped that the brother of Sony Michel would be able to make it onto the roster as a versatile option in the backfield, but it wasn’t to be.

Prior to trying to fly in Philadelphia, the speedy receiver racked up 435 yards on 31 receptions, 36 yards on two carries and added six total touchdowns in 11 games in 2018 for the Calgary Stampeders.

Michel maintained his NFL status, spending time with the Carolina Panthers after departing Philadelphia and working behind Christian McCaffrey. Now, with the preseason opener just two days away, Michel could be back to pick up where he left off and try to make his second case for a roster spot.

If you’re looking for a preseason hero, Michel has already been there and done it. The question now becomes whether or not history will repeat itself.

Photo by Joshua Sarner/Icon Sportswire