Philly Leader

The Philadelphia Eagles have made several roster adjustments as they approach the playoffs, notably involving quarterback Ian Book. Originally a fourth-round pick by the New Orleans Saints in 2021, Book has rejoined the Eagles' practice squad just two days after being waived from the active roster.

In an unexpected turn of events, Book became a central figure in recent transactions for the Eagles. The team had previously signed him to their practice squad on December 26 following injuries to quarterbacks Jalen Hurts and Kenny Pickett. He was then moved to the active roster but did not participate in any of the last two regular-season games.

The Eagles utilized Book's vacated spot on Wednesday to bring in defensive back Lewis Cine from the Buffalo Bills' practice squad. This move resulted in cornerback Mekhi Gardner being released from Philadelphia's practice squad.

Book's history with the Eagles began when he was claimed off waivers at the close of the 2022 preseason. Although he spent that entire season on their active roster and dressed for two games, he did not see any playing time. In 2023, after failing to make the roster post-training camp, he briefly joined the New England Patriots' practice squad and spent some time with the Kansas City Chiefs during this past offseason.

During his college tenure at Notre Dame, Book set a record as the university's most successful quarterback with a 30-5 record and led his team to two College Football Playoff appearances as a captain.

Meanwhile, Gardner returned to Philadelphia's practice squad on New Year's Eve after initially signing with them as an undrafted free agent. He appeared in three games for them in 2023 before being waived over summer due to injury concerns.