Eagles close out the preseason with a Friday night matchup against the Jets at MetLife Stadium, kicking off at 7:30 p.m. and airing on NBC10. This game serves as the final audition before Philadelphia trims its roster from 90 to 53 by Tuesday’s 4 p.m. deadline.
15 players to watch in Friday’s game
1) QB Kyle McCord
With Tanner McKee sidelined by a finger injury, McCord has run the second-team offense over Dorian Thompson-Robinson. A strong showing could seal his place atop the depth chart behind the starter.
2) RB Montrell Johnson
The Florida product and UDFA has dealt with a hamstring issue in camp. He didn’t get much room against the Browns, but his ability could earn him a late push for a roster spot with a standout performance Friday night.
3) WR Darius Cooper
Cooper has been a bright spot in camp for the Eagles and is in the mix for a 53-man roster. Friday gives him a final chance to reinforce why he deserves a spot.
4) WR John Metchie III
Acquired in a midweek trade with Houston, Metchie will finally see action after limited practice reps. If he’s got juice left, Friday could be his launching pad.
5) WR Ainias Smith
Smith has found the end zone in each of the first two preseason games. He’s pushing for a roster spot, and his return ability could provide an extra edge.
6) TE Kylen Granson
If the Eagles decide to keep three tight ends, Granson could slot in behind Dallas Goedert and Grant Calcaterra. He’s been productive in camp and adds a different skill set to the position.
7) OL Darian Kinnard
Kinnard’s versatility could be key to the line depth this season. A solid outing could cement him as a multi-position backup option.
8) OT Myles Hinton
The Michigan rookie has shown flashes of development. A strong last audition could help secure a spot on the 53-man roster.
9) DT Byron Young
Returning from a groin issue, Young flashed in the second preseason game. He’s in the mix for a rotational role and a roster spot.
10) DT Gabe Hall
Hall’s progress from last season’s practice squad to this summer’s camp has drawn attention. He’s competing with Young for the final defensive tackle spot.
11) OLB Patrick Johnson
Johnson has consistently popped in preseason action and has shown he can contribute on special teams. He’ll be fighting to be the last outside linebacker on the roster.
12) OLB Ogbo Okoronkwo
Okoronkwo is in the mix for the final edge rushing spot. If he can deliver another productive performance, he could edge out competitors for a 2025 roster spot.
13) CB Jakorian Bennett
Bennett flashed with a good pass breakup against the Browns, though first-team reps still belong to Adoree’ Jackson. A strong late-game showing could bolster his case.
14) CB Mac McWilliams
McWilliams has been in the thick of the cornerback competition, showing versatility at outside corner and nickel. A strong night could push him further into the rotation.
15) S Andre Sam
Sam is known for his special-teams value but remains on the bubble as the roster cuts loom. He’ll need a standout performance to secure a spot.
What this game means
Friday’s finale is less about building the Week 1 game plan and more about finalizing depth, evaluating backups across multiple positions, and highlighting players who can contribute on special teams. The competition between several positions—especially quarterback, edge rusher, and multiple defensive backs—will shape the Eagles’ 53-man decisions.
Summary and outlook
The Eagles’ final preseason test is a critical step in shaping their 53-man roster. A strong performance from the players on this watch list could underscore the team’s depth and give fans optimism about the backend of the roster. Look for a competitive night that showcases the organization’s ongoing evaluation and long-term depth-building as they move toward the regular season with a clear-eyed eye on fit and versatility.