The Philadelphia Eagles have competition brewing outside of the quarterback spot. While Tim Tebow, Mark Sanchez and Matt Barkley battle it out to see who gets to play backup to Sam Bradford, the wide receivers are competing for a slot in the starting rotation. Right now, Jordan Matthews as the No.1 receiver on lock for the time being, but there are questions lingering about who will be running alongside him. Is Josh Huff losing speed to Riley Cooper?
According to NJ.com, Cooper will not be released despite rumors that his roster spot is in jeopardy. Cooper's contract is likely helping him stay put for the year as it would cost more money to cut him than keep him. Cooper will also stay put because head coach Chip Kelly is his biggest fan as he continues to praise the receiver for his blocking skills and chemistry with the quarterback. That makes the receiving rotation to contain at least, Matthews, Cooper, Nelson Agholor and Josh Huff who is enjoying a strong second year with the team.
Miles Austin looked strong in his Philadelphia debut. The former Dallas Cowboys star has been off the map thanks to hamstring injuries. However, he managed to find his way onto the depth chart with a nice 39-yard catch. Rookie Rasheed Bailey had a nice first game as well with two catches for 23 yards. Quron Pratt is aiming to get a roster spot on the team along with Jeff Maehl. Kelly will have some decisions to make.
The biggest star for the Eagles at the moment could be Tebow who had a solid return to the NFL following a year off. The quarterback showed off an improved throwing motion while getting a late touchdown. The Fans clearly loved it as he battles for a spot behind Bradford and Sanchez. One person that paid no attention to the quarterback hype was Barkley who runs the risk of getting released before the year begins.
"He's a fan favorite and he's a good teammate," Barkley said, vi the Philadelphia Inquirer. "He played well today for not playing in a year or two, whatever it's been. He did a good job. It's pretty funny to see their reaction. He's loved everywhere he goes, as he should be. He's a great person. Love him as a teammate."
The fans do love Tebow and so does Kelly. Barkley did everything asked of him in the team's first preseason game as he played in the quarterback's shadow. The chances are slim that the Eagles enter the year with four quarterbacks on the roster so it remains to be seen who makes the final cut.
