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I originally started this article to continue my reactions to watching training camp at Lincoln Financial Field on Monday. There were a handful of players who stood out and should make the team. At the same time, a few names underperformed and looked like they were fighting for their spot. With the injury to Arrelious Benn, my surprise player to make the team has an even better chance at success.
Surprise Keep: Nick Miller
Miller stood out every chance he had to touch the football. In the special teams drill I watched, he was the only returner to fully run out his rep, even past the first level of blockers. He ran with speed, showed some moves, and flashed skill that is needed with the loss of Jeremy Maclin and Benn. He executed his patterns well and looked like he came to play. He has spent time with the Oakland Raiders and St. Louis Rams. Don’t be shocked if Miller earns a roster spot in September.
Surprise Cut: Felix Jones
This says less about Jones than it does the strength of his competition in Chris Polk. Jones ran his drills, returned kicks, and cut through the line with performance that could be expected for a veteran player. He showed some good hands and flashes of his past time with the Dallas Cowboys. It must be a different feeling to line up on this side of the Linc. Polk may be the reason Jones does not make the team. He stood out every time he had the ball, hitting cuts and moving through holes faster than the other backs. He performed in the special teams drills and caught passes that went his way. Polk is a set of younger legs and looks like he is ready to explode this season. Don’t be surprised to see Jones on the street in September.
Matt Shaner is a Philadelphia Eagles writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow m on Twitter @MDShanersports, “Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google
