Eagles: Surprising Final Preseason Roster Battles Revealed

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Eagles fans will get one final look at several roster hopefuls Friday night, when Philadelphia faces the Cincinnati Bengals in its third and final preseason game. Kickoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. Eastern, giving fringe players one last opportunity to make an impression before the regular season.

According to PhillyVoice’s Jimmy Kempski, the game could be especially important for players competing for depth-chart positions, special teams roles and places on the initial 53-man roster. While many established starters typically sit out the final preseason contest, several players on the roster bubble are expected to receive extended action.

Critical Eagles Roster Battles to Watch

The final preseason game is often less about the established stars and more about the players trying to prove they belong. These are the 10 names Kempski identified as worth watching against Cincinnati.

Makai Lemon’s Long-Awaited Debut

Wide receiver Makai Lemon has not played in either of Philadelphia’s first two preseason games while recovering from a hamstring injury. The 2026 first-round pick is projected as the team’s WR3 heading into the season, making his debut one of the night’s biggest storylines.

Lemon will likely receive a few carefully managed opportunities before leaving the game. Even a limited appearance would give Eagles supporters their first chance to see the rookie in live NFL action. The team will want to evaluate his timing, route running and ability to handle contact without aggravating the injury.

Uar Bernard and Joshua Weru Make Their Case

Interior defensive lineman Uar Bernard and edge rusher Joshua Weru have both flashed developmental potential during training camp and the preseason. Weru impressed against New England with an athletic Eurostep move against a Patriots offensive tackle, while Bernard recorded several strong run stops.

Both players are viewed as “exchange dudes,” a description for young prospects with intriguing traits who could develop into contributors. The Bengals game may be their last meaningful chance to show the coaching staff they deserve a roster spot before potentially being buried on the depth chart during the regular season.

Can Keyshawn James-Newby Force a Late Change?

Seventh-round rookie edge rusher Keyshawn James-Newby missed all or part of 11 practices and both preseason games because of an ankle injury. However, he returned as a full participant Wednesday and reportedly showed impressive burst off the edge.

A strong performance against Cincinnati could put James-Newby into serious consideration at the last moment. His work on special teams will also be important, since young defensive players often need to contribute in coverage or kick units to secure a roster spot.

Veterans Face Uncertain Futures

Wide receiver Elijah Moore and cornerback Jonathan Jones are experienced players who would be worthy of NFL roster places, but their situations remain uncertain in Philadelphia.

Moore has had a solid training camp, yet the Eagles may already have five receivers ahead of him: DeVonta Smith, Dontayvion Wicks, Makai Lemon, Hollywood Brown and Darius Cooper. The question is whether Philadelphia can carry a sixth receiver and whether Moore offers a specific skill that separates him from the competition.

Jones appeared to be on track for the roster before missing eight practices and both preseason games with a shoulder injury. He returned to practice in a limited capacity Wednesday, leaving open the possibility that he could play Friday. His availability and performance could have a major effect on the cornerback group.

Undrafted Defensive Backs Still Alive

Kapena Gushiken and Maximus Pulley, two undrafted rookie defensive backs, have shown enough during camp and preseason action to remain in contention. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said Wednesday that both players are “still alive” and that the game will mean something to them.

Their ability to cover, tackle and contribute on special teams could determine whether they make the initial roster, land on the practice squad or move on from the Eagles.

Important Special Teams Questions

Kicker Jake Elliott and long snapper Rocco Underwood will also draw attention. Philadelphia has attempted four extra points this preseason but has not yet tried a more difficult field goal in game action.

Elliott is coming off two down seasons, while Underwood is an undrafted rookie competing for the long-snapping job. One or two field-goal attempts would provide a valuable test for the entire kicking operation before the regular season begins.

Why the Eagles’ Final Preseason Game Matters

Philadelphia’s roster decisions are approaching quickly, and the Bengals matchup represents the last audition for many players. A single explosive play, missed assignment or standout special teams rep could influence the coaching staff’s final decisions.

For established players, the game may be about staying healthy. For the Eagles’ younger prospects and veterans on the bubble, it could be the most important night of the summer. The final roster will shape Philadelphia’s depth, emergency options and special teams units once the regular season begins.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do the Eagles play the Bengals?

The Eagles are scheduled to play the Cincinnati Bengals Friday night at 8 p.m. Eastern in their third and final preseason game.

Will Makai Lemon play?

Lemon could make his preseason debut after missing the first two games while recovering from a hamstring injury. His playing time is expected to be limited.

Which Eagles players are fighting for roster spots?

Joshua Weru, Uar Bernard, Keyshawn James-Newby, Elijah Moore, Jonathan Jones, Kapena Gushiken and Maximus Pulley are among the players facing important roster evaluations.

Why are Jake Elliott and Rocco Underwood important to watch?

The Eagles have not attempted a challenging field goal this preseason. Elliott’s recent form and Underwood’s bid to become the long snapper make the kicking operation worth monitoring.