10 Eagles looking to lock up key roster spots against the Patriots

After two days of intense joint practice sessions in New England, it'll be veterans and select rookies battling the Patriots' counterparts in one of the most significant games for players on or near the roster bubble. With expanded practice squads, NFL teams can get a bit creative in how they build a 53-man roster. Philadelphia’s starters received meaningful work during two joint practices with New England, leaving the preseason game for players still fighting to make a lasting impression.

Several reserve-position battles remain unsettled, particularly along the interior offensive line, in the secondary, and for the fourth or fifth defensive tackle spot. Special teams will also influence decisions when the Eagles reduce the roster to 53 players.

Here are 10 bubble players under pressure to produce against the Patriots.

Covey’s clearest path to the roster remains as a punt returner. The Eagles, however, must determine whether his return ability warrants a spot in a crowded receiver room. Big plays in the return or passing game could alleviate some of Covey's concern.

Majors has worked his way into the backup guard conversation and received snaps at center. Philadelphia values linemen who can play multiple positions, making his ability to function at guard another factor.

Robinson recorded a sack in the preseason opener against Baltimore and received some first-team work during the joint practices. Another productive performance would show that his recent improvement is sustainable in his battle with Byron Young.

An International Pathway performer, Weru possesses the athletic traits to become an intriguing developmental edge defender, but the Eagles have more established options ahead of him. He needs to continue to show the ability to pressure the quarterback, maintain his responsibilities against the run, and contribute on special teams.

Philadelphia signed Bolden after its preseason opener, leaving the former Patriots draft pick with little time to make an impression.

His familiarity with New England adds intrigue to the matchup. Bolden must show value on defense and special teams, where his experience as a returner and coverage player could help him challenge for one of the final defensive back spots.

Pulley has repeatedly found himself around the football during camp, but the rookie safety is competing at a position with several experienced options.

His roster case will likely depend heavily on special teams. Dependable tackling, instincts in coverage, and discipline playing at all three levels.

Hinton is competing for one of the final reserve offensive line positions. His ability to play tackle and guard improves his chances, but Philadelphia already has several younger linemen under contract and further up the depth chart.

Hinton needs to perform consistently against New England’s reserve pass rushers and prove that his positional flexibility provides enough value to warrant another season of development.

Jordan offers starting experience, but the Eagles may prioritize younger, more versatile options when constructing the offensive line room.

The preseason matchup allows Jordan to show that he remains a dependable interior blocker. Clean work in pass protection and the ability to create movement in the running game would strengthen his case.

Epenesa entered camp competing for a rotational role behind Philadelphia’s top edge defenders. The veteran has an established NFL résumé, but his roster spot is not guaranteed.

With Jonathan Greenard injured, Epenesa has an opportunity to demonstrate that he can provide immediate juice as an edge rusher behind the current big three.

Hall is competing for one of the final spots in Philadelphia’s crowded defensive tackle rotation. He has spent time on both the active roster and the practice squad, but his position remains vulnerable given the numbers ahead of him.

Hall needs to disrupt New England’s interior blocking, defend the run consistently and create pressure from the pocket. A quiet performance could leave him on the outside when final cuts arrive.

This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: 10 Eagles looking to lock up key roster spots against the Patriots