Philly Leader

All three are veterans on a new team with the same mindset: to play the very best football they are capable of playing, to help the Philadelphia Eagles in every way possible, and to establish once again some on-field glory and move their careers forward.

In the case of cornerback Isaiah Rodgers, it isn't a "comeback." It's a "Return To Zay," as he terms it after a year-long absence from the game following his violation of the NFL's gambling policy last year as a member of the Indianapolis Colts.

For offensive lineman Mekhi Becton, this is an opportunity to establish consistency in a career with the New York Jets marred by injuries and three offensive line coaches in four seasons.

Linebacker Devin White sees it as a chance to manifest his vision of once again playing like a Pro Bowl-playmaking ballhawk free of injury. He aims to display high emotion and an ear-to-ear smile, demonstrating his joy at being a Philadelphia Eagle.

These players exemplify the Eagles' aggressive approach to building their 2024 roster. The Eagles signed Rodgers in 2023 after his suspension and subsequent release from the Colts. White was added early in the 2024 NFL free agency period, and Becton joined post-NFL Draft.

"I believe that if you want something, you've got to talk about it, put it down on paper, see it, and go get it," said White. He has had a months-long text chain with quarterback Jalen Hurts and wide receiver A.J. Brown about shared team goals. "I also believe in God. He takes you through all of the battles – He brings you through them if you keep the faith. I have a clear understanding of what I want, and that's just overall happiness."

White added: "At one time, I was considered one of the best linebackers in the NFL. I want to get back to that point."

Becton, selected 11th overall in the 2020 NFL Draft for New York, had ups and downs with the Jets but seemed on an upward trajectory last year after injuries stunted his growth. He was still available when free agency ended until the Eagles signed him to a one-year deal post-draft.

"I'm 25 years old. I'm in my prime seasons and I'm ecstatic being here," he said. "Coach Stout (Jeff Stoutland) is second to none... Your position coach is so important to how you develop."

Rodgers views this period as very much a comeback and embraces his second chance at an NFL career after learning long ago to appreciate every opportunity on the field.

"This is fun and it's probably the best cornerback room anywhere taking into consideration everything," Rodgers said. "This is my second chance... Everything I'm doing, I'm doing better – studying, details, love."

He concluded: "I have always had this slogan: Never let your head down unless you're praying... I have a second chance in my career and I'm going to make the most of it."