Eagles Not Keeping Ten O-Linemen This Time

Last year, Andy Reid made the unusual decision to keep 10 offensive linemen after final cuts.  The official explanation was that these guys were all too talented to let go, but it also might have had something to do with concern over the durability of long-time starters Jon Runyan and William Thomas.

There are signs that Reid won't be making the same move this year.  For one, the team took no offensive linemen in this year's draft, so there are no contract situations to worry about.  The second reason is that the Eagles are carrying too much talent -- and need -- at other positions, along with a long-snapper and perhaps a returner who are sucking up two more specialist roster spots.

The other clue is that last year's surprise keeper, tackle Pat McCoy, may not be looking good so far in camp (except maybe against McDougle).  There have been some good signs.  But when Runyan went down with his "back tightness" yesterday, why was it that "Reid alternated Nick Cole and Max Jean-Gilles at right guard and right tackle"?  It's not like McCoy doesn't need to reps. 

Strange move.  Although this could be one of those times when we may want to be careful taking the on-site reporter's word for it.