Reid: Nick Foles Is No. 2

Andy Reid said on Tuesday that as it stands right now, Nick Foles is the backup quarterback to Michael Vick.

That doesn’t necessarily mean it’s set in stone. Mike Kafka (fractured hand) will not play in the preseason finale against the Jets barring an unexpected development. But Foles will get the start Thursday night, and right now is the next man in.

“Right now that’s what he is. He’s the one that’s going to start the game,” said Reid. “You ask me right now, I’m just telling you. That’s what it is. I can’t get any clearer than that.”

Foles will play the first quarter and Trent Edwards the last three quarters.

Reid will hold out the majority of the starters for the fourth preseason game. One exception is the recently-promoted Akeem Jordan, who will get some snaps at weakside linebacker.

Nate Allen (hamstring), Jason Babin (calf), Riley Cooper (collarbone) and Casey Matthews (ankle) are out because of injury.

Who plays and who sits can give some insight into the Eagles’ thinking. Stanley Havili, for instance, will not play, meaning he is considered the starting fullback. Derek Landri, Fletcher Cox and Darryl Tapp will also be spectators.

As for Kafka: Does not being able to suit up hurt him in the quarterback competition?

“I know him well enough I think to be able to make that evaluation,” said Reid. “We’ll give Trent an opportunity to play and hold Mike out — not because I have all the information, that’s not what I’m saying. I don’t want to hurt him.”