Just two days before the 2024 NFL Draft kicks off, the Philadelphia Eagles have added a potential key player, as the NFL reinstated Isaiah Rodgers from an indefinite suspension related to violations of the league’s sports gambling policy on Tuesday.
Rodgers faced suspension last summer and was subsequently released by the Indianapolis Colts. The Eagles, however, took a chance and signed him in August, during his suspension for allegedly betting on NFL games, including ones he played in.
Now reinstated, Rodgers could potentially emerge as a secret weapon for the Eagles in 2024. Having spent a year away from NFL action, there’s no guarantee he’ll secure a starting role immediately, but he joins an Eagles squad that could use his skills in the secondary both now and in the future.
Before his suspension, Rodgers was noted as one of the rising stars in defensive play due to his versatility.
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Despite his slight build at 5-foot-10, 170 pounds, the UMass alum made a significant impact right out of college, particularly on special teams. He was third in the NFL with an average of 28.8 yards per kick return during his rookie year in 2020, which included a memorable 101-yard touchdown. His defensive capabilities were also on display in subsequent seasons; Rodgers notched three interceptions and seven pass breakups on just 48% of the defensive snaps in 2021. By 2022, he was a part-time starter, managing four fumble recoveries and limiting quarterbacks to a 58.6% completion rate when they targeted him.
Julian Blackmon, a standout safety for the Colts in 2023, had previously emphasized Rodgers’ necessity on the field due to his playmaking abilities. Now with the Eagles, similar sentiments are likely to be echoed by his new teammates. With veteran cornerbacks like Darius Slay Jr. and James Bradberry showing signs of aging, Rodgers not only brings youth but seasoned experience to the perimeter.
Additionally, as the NFL looks to reemphasize meaningful kickoff returns, Rodgers could also become the frontrunner for the Eagles’ return duties in 2024, leveraging his established prowess as a return specialist.
While Rodgers’ reinstatement adds depth and potential to the Eagles’ roster, it may not deter them from seeking further reinforcement at cornerback in the early rounds of the draft. Nonetheless, his return provides the Eagles with a valuable contingency option and a player with considerable upside.
