MobbleOpen in Mobble ⇢
Sports · Football (NFL) · published 2026-08-29 · via Sports Illustrated

Eagles Roster Forecast: Dalton Edges McKee, IPP Defensive Tackle Makes Cut

Image via Sports Illustrated
Image via Sports Illustrated

Philadelphia's final roster projection includes 25 offensive and 26 defensive players, with veteran Andy Dalton securing the backup quarterback spot over Tanner McKee after the preseason finale. The team kept seven defensive tackles, including international pathway player Uar Bernard, while undrafted free agent Zion Wilson also made the list. Running back Carson Steele and receiver Elijah Moore were notable omissions due to roster crunch.

The Eagles' final roster projection reflects a heavy investment in the defensive interior, with seven defensive tackles retained including international pathway player Uar Bernard and undrafted free agent Zion Wilson. The team also kept five edge rushers, aided by Jonathan Greenard's expected placement on the PUP list, which freed an additional spot. Veteran Andy Dalton's experience ultimately outweighed Tanner McKee's development for the backup quarterback role, while Cole Payton secured the third spot.

Several difficult cuts emerged from the numbers crunch, including running back Carson Steele and receiver Elijah Moore, both of whom had productive summers but fell victim to positional depth. Safety Andre Sam was removed after suffering a serious injury that required a cart, and the team may still address long snapper via waivers. The roster also features notable flexibility, with Cooper DeJean capable of playing safety and multiple options for punt return duties.

Context

This roster projection could influence the Eagles' competitive trajectory in the upcoming season, particularly at backup quarterback and defensive line depth, where injuries often determine playoff outcomes. Fans and fantasy players may track these final cuts closely, while undrafted players like Zion Wilson and international talent like Uar Bernard represent broader league efforts to diversify talent pipelines. The decisions also signal how teams balance veteran experience against developmental upside, a dynamic that could shape roster-building trends across the NFL.

Expanded detail and Context are AI-generated analysis; the linked article remains the authoritative source.
Read the full article at Sports Illustrated →
Related stories
Pittsburgh Steelers Begin Roster Reduction with 11 Releases · Football (NFL)
Final Preseason Game to Decide Roster Spots at Key Positions · Football (NFL)
Bengals finish preseason undefeated with win over Eagles · Football (NFL)
Packers Preseason Halftime Report: McCord and Sheppard Shine vs. Cardinals · Football (NFL)
This summary is AI-generated and original to Mobble; the linked article is the authoritative source. Original headline: “Eagles Final 53-Man Roster Projection: Who's In, Who's Out?.” Browse more stories.