Eagles claim OT Welch off waivers

The Philadelphia Eagles today announced they have claimed OT Thomas Welch off waivers from the St. Louis Rams.

The 24-year old Welch saw action in five games for the Rams and three with the Patriots in 2011, including one start as an extra tight end for the Patriots at Oakland on October 2, 2011. He was also a member of Buffalo’s practice squad in 2011.

A 7th round draft choice of the New England Patriots in 2010, Welch spent the majority of his rookie season on the Minnesota Vikings practice squad after being released by the Patriots. He was promoted to the Vikings 53-man roster late that season, but did not see any game action.

A native of Brentwood, TN, Welch (6-6, 300) began his collegiate career at Vanderbilt as a tight end, but was moved to offensive tackle following his redshirt season. He went on to start at tackle during his final two campaigns for the Commodores.