Eagles Sign 13 Players to Futures Contracts
The Philadelphia Eagles celebrated a victorious parade on Broad Street on Friday, but the festivities didn’t overshadow their focus on the future. Amid the jubilation, the team signed 13 players to futures contracts. These contracts are designed for players who were not on a 53-man roster at the end of the regular season, providing them a chance to compete for a spot on the 90-man roster when the new league year begins in March.
Majority from the Practice Squad
Of the 13 players signed to futures contracts, 12 were part of the Eagles’ practice squad leading up to the Super Bowl. The only exception is wide receiver Elijah Cooks, who spent a week on the practice squad in January. This move underscores the team’s commitment to developing young talent and ensuring depth across the roster.
Defensive Backs: Potential and Experience
Tariq Castro-Fields is a player with a brief but promising NFL career. Drafted in the sixth round by the San Francisco 49ers in 2022, Castro-Fields, a 6-foot-1, 197-pound defensive back, saw action with the Washington Commanders and Carolina Panthers. Despite limited playing time, he has shown potential with his speed and agility, making 27 defensive snaps and 109 special teams snaps in his career. While he hasn’t appeared in a game for the Eagles yet, his experience and potential could make him a valuable addition to the team’s depth chart.
Parry Nickerson is a 30-year-old veteran who impressed the Eagles during training camp. With 30 games and three starts under his belt, including five games with the Miami Dolphins in 2023, Nickerson brings a wealth of experience. His presence on the practice squad throughout the season indicates the team’s faith in his abilities and potential to contribute when called upon.
Andre’ Sam is another defensive back who made a memorable impact during the Super Bowl, coinciding with his 26th birthday. Sam played 12 special teams snaps in a game against the Panthers this season. His birthday celebration was shared with Saquon Barkley and Cooper DeJean, highlighting the camaraderie and team spirit within the Eagles’ organization.
A.J. Woods is a young, undrafted free agent from Pitt who joined the Eagles’ practice squad in early September. Standing 5-foot-9 and weighing 186 pounds, Woods’ speed and agility make him an intriguing prospect. Although he didn’t see any game action in 2024, his potential and work ethic have earned him a futures contract.
Wide Receivers: Versatile and Talented
Elijah Cooks is a 6-foot-4, 215-pound wide receiver who went undrafted out of San Jose State in 2023. Cooks had a notable college career, with 69 catches for 1,076 yards and 10 touchdowns in his single season at San Jose State. He spent time with the Jacksonville Jaguars and had three catches for 38 yards in 11 games over two seasons. Cooks’ size and ability to make plays downfield could make him a valuable asset in the Eagles’ receiving corps.
Danny Gray is another wide receiver with a track background, running a 4.33 40-yard dash at the combine. Drafted in the third round by the 49ers in 2022, Gray had a limited rookie season with one catch for 10 yards. His speed and versatility as a receiver and return man make him a promising prospect for the Eagles.
Running Back and Linebacker: Depth and Potential
Tyrion Davis-Price is a 6-foot-1, 225-pound running back who was a third-round pick by the 49ers in 2022. After playing in just seven games over two seasons, Davis-Price joined the Eagles’ practice squad, where he spent the entire 2024 season. He saw action in one game, carrying the ball three times for seven yards. Davis-Price’s combination of size and speed, along with his strong preseason performance, makes him a player to watch in the coming season.
Dallas Gant is a linebacker who went undrafted out of Toledo in 2024. He spent time with the Vikings before joining the Eagles’ practice squad. Gant was elevated for the final two games of the regular season, playing 26 snaps on special teams. His versatility and ability to contribute on special teams could make him a valuable addition to the team.
Linemen: Size and Strength
Gabe Hall is a 6-foot-6, 295-pound defensive tackle who went undrafted out of Baylor in 2024. He spent the entire season on the Eagles’ practice squad and made some notable plays during training camp. Hall’s size and strength make him a player to keep an eye on as he continues to develop.
K.J. Henry is a defensive end who was drafted in the fifth round by the Commanders in 2023. Standing 6-foot-4 and weighing 255 pounds, Henry has played in 14 games with 3 starts and recorded 2.5 sacks. His experience and ability to rush the passer could be valuable assets for the Eagles.
Ochaun Mathis is a 6-foot-5, 260-pound linebacker who was a sixth-round pick by the Rams in 2023. Mathis played in 14 games, including 9 special teams snaps in a game against the Baltimore Ravens. His size and athleticism make him a player with potential to contribute in multiple areas.
Laekin Vakalahi is an international player from Australia who was on the Eagles’ practice squad under an international exemption. As the 17th member of the practice squad, Vakalahi’s unique background and potential could add depth and diversity to the team’s roster.
Tight End: Development and Potential
Nick Muse is a tight end who went undrafted out of South Carolina in 2022. After being signed by the Vikings, Muse played in 16 games over three seasons, recording one catch for 22 yards. He joined the Eagles’ practice squad in January, and his size and versatility make him a player worth developing for the future.
Conclusion
The Eagles’ decision to sign these 13 players to futures contracts demonstrates their commitment to building a deep and competitive roster. These players, ranging from veterans with experience to young, undrafted free agents, bring a mix of potential, versatility, and enthusiasm to the team. As the new league year approaches, the Eagles will look to these players to contribute and help maintain their winning momentum.
