Casey Matthews was a well-known draft prospect because of his brother Clay, but he didn’t get taken until the fourth round because his pro ceiling was viewed as limited.
The Oregon product is quickly exceeding expectations.
Matthews was named the starting middle linebacker on the first official Eagles depth chart Monday. That designation confirms what has been seen in practice. Matthews has been with the “ones” in every Eagles package.
We don’t put a lot of stock in early depth charts because they tend to put rookies and free agents lower than they should be. (For instance, Jason Babin is listed as a backup in Philly.)
Naming Matthews the starter right now sends a message. They want him to fulfill the promise that Stewart Bradley could not the last few years. Jamar Chaney and Moise Fokou flank Matthews on the weak and strong side respectively.