The 2022 NFL Draft is a week away. That doesn’t stop the Philadelphia Eagles from making waves, though. As reported by Jeff McLane on Thursday Night, former second-round pick JJ-Arcega-Whiteside is looking to change positions this season.
Arcega-Whiteside has totaled just 16 career catches in three seasons in Philadelphia with a career-low two catches last season. While considered an excellent blocker, Arcega-Whiteside has struggled throughout his career to get on the field and gain separation as a receiver.
The move does not come as a surprise to some. At 6’2″ 225lbs, JJAW will still need to put on some extra weight to be able to size up to stronger edge rushers and linebackers, but the former Stanford standout seems to be a clearer fit at TE than he is at WR. Coming out of the PAC-12, JJAW was considered a red zone threat that could help any team with his catch radius and ability to absorb contact. It’s a mark clearly seen in many TE’s.
It’s not the first time that the Eagles have looked to rehome big wideouts. Most recently, Hakeem Butler was the man looking to be remolded, while former QB Tyree Jackson outpaced him and stole the show.
The move also seemingly creates a log-jam for the backup TE spot behind Dallas Goedert. Tyree Jackson had an excellent training camp before suffering a broken back that cost him most of the year. Undrafted rookie Jack Stoll also carved out a nice role last season as a blocking TE as well.
After three years of silence as a receiver, the Eagles are clearly looking to give him one final chance as he enters the last year of his contract.
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