Eagles’ Devin White Addresses Backup Role

Devin White was added in free agency as part of the Eagles’ efforts to rebuild at the linebacker position. The former Buccaneers Pro Bowler appeared to be on track for a starting role during the offseason, but that has not proven to be the case early in 2024.

White lost out on a first-team defensive gig to Nakobe Dean, with the Eagles counting on the 2022 third-rounder to remain healthy and take a step forward in his development. White inked a one-year deal in free agency while aiming to rebuild his value. The former top five pick lost out his starting spot at the end of his Bucs tenure, and he expected to reclaim it upon signing with Philadelphia.

“At the end of the day, that’s not my call,” White said when expressing his surprise at being a backup (via PHLY’s Zach Berman). “I’m going to do what’s asked of me and stay ready — whether that’s the last two minutes of the game or the first two minutes of the game… That’s what I came here to do, rewrite the story for my career. However that plays out, I don’t control that… Just come to work and be a pro about everything.”

An ankle injury kept the LSU product from being able to play in the season opener. He returned to full health in time for Week 2 but was a healthy scratch. White does not have extensive experience playing special teams, and it is uncommon for backup linebackers in particular to dress for games without handling third phase responsibilities. It will be interesting to see how Philadelphia proceeds with White over the coming weeks as he seeks to boost his stock ahead of the 2025 offseason.

Inconsistency against the run was an issue during his Buccaneers tenure, and it was a factor in the team’s decision not to authorize a big-money extension. White originally sought out a deal at or near the top of the LB market, but he settled for a $4MM accord with the Eagles. His market value would, of course, take a hit if he were to spend a long stretch on the sidelines and ESPN’s Dan Graziano names White as a potential trade candidate if he does not work his way into the starting lineup.

The Eagles have Dean and Zack Baun in place atop the depth chart for the time being. White joins special teamer Oren Burks and rookie Jeremiah Trotter Jr. as backup options, but it remains to be seen how he will fit into the team’s plans moving forward.