How Vandervelde Fits Into the OL Picture
Photo by: Jeff Fusco.
The Eagles have re-signed guard/center Julian Vandervelde and released veteran offensive lineman Wade Smith.
Back in August, the team waived Vandervelde with an injury settlement. A fifth-round pick in 2011, Vandervelde had back surgery during the summer.
The assumption is that Vandervelde will back up David Molk at center for the next two games against the Arizona Cardinals and Houston Texans. Jason Kelce is hoping to return for the Week 10 matchup against the Carolina Panthers. And so is Evan Mathis (IR – knee). At that time, the Eagles will have to decide on their best backup option and will likely release an offensive lineman.
For the next two games, the offensive line will likely remain the same. From left to right: Jason Peters, Matt Tobin, Molk, Todd Herremans and Lane Johnson. The backups on gameday in Week 8 will likely be Andrew Gardner (tackle) and Vandervelde (guard/center).
The Eagles also have guard Dennis Kelly on the 53-man roster.