Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Eagles sign fullback; release Reed

The Philadelphia Eagles have signed FB Kyle Eckel to a two-year contract. To make room on the 53-man roster, the team released S J.R. Reed.

A native of Philadelphia and a product of Episcopal Academy, Eckel spent the entire 2007 season with the New England Patriots. After being promoted from their practice squad on October 1, he saw action in 12 regular season games and two postseason contests with the Patriots. Eckel gained 90 yards and 2 touchdowns on 33 carries and notched 12 special teams tackles.

Eckel (5-11, 237) was originally signed by the Patriots as a rookie free agent in 2005, but was released following training camp that year. He was claimed off waivers by Miami, but spent the parts of two seasons on the reserve/military list with the Dolphins.

While at the Naval Academy, Eckel became the third player in school history to post two 1,000-yard rushing seasons in his career as he finished with 2,906 yards and 25 touchdowns. While at Episcopal Academy located in Merion, PA, Eckel shared all-city backfield team honors with Chicago Bears RB Kevin Jones.

In addition, the Eagles signed G Nevin McCaskill to the practice squad and released FB Jed Collins from the practice squad.

McCaskill (6-4, 300) was originally signed as an undrafted free agent by Buffalo in 2007 and spent his entire rookie season on the Bills practice squad. The Tallahasse, FL, native was a two-year starter at left tackle for Hampton from 2004-05.

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