Philly Leader

The Philadelphia Eagles have bolstered their roster by adding Isaiah Rodgers, a cornerback reinstated by the NFL on Tuesday. This move comes just before the 2024 NFL Draft, allowing Rodgers to engage in all team activities.

Rodgers was initially drafted in the sixth round by the Indianapolis Colts in 2020 after playing college football at Massachusetts. Over his tenure with the Colts, he appeared in 45 games and started in 10 of them. However, his career faced a setback when he was suspended for violating the league's gambling policy in June 2023, leading to his release from the Colts. The Eagles signed him in August last year, fully aware that they would not have access to him for that season.

Executive Vice President/General Manager Howie Roseman expressed confidence in Rodgers' potential despite past mistakes: "We did work on him coming out of the draft, saw his pro tape. He is a talented guy, and obviously he made a mistake, and he has apologized for that mistake."

Roseman emphasized the organization's belief in second chances: "We believe in second chances, and now it's on him. So, he'll come in next year, be ready to go for the offseason program and Training Camp."

Head Coach Nick Sirianni shares history with Rodgers from their time together at Indianapolis. During his stint with the Colts, Rodgers accumulated 88 tackles, defended 10 passes, and intercepted three passes. Notably, he became one of only six rookies in Colts history to return a kickoff for a touchdown during his first season.

Rodgers' career average of 27 yards per kickoff return could prove valuable under new NFL rules set for implementation this year.