Howie Roseman Talks Rolle, Fletcher Cox

Howie Roseman explained the move to cut Brian Rolle and sign linebacker Adrian Moten during his hit on the Eagles website Tuesday.

“Well we’ve got to improve on special teams,” said Roseman. “Our backup players — Jamar Chaney right now is our backup WILL linebacker behind Akeem Jordan — so those other roster spots have to play well on special teams. We’re looking for an upgrade in that area. Adrian came in last year and played well on special teams, played well for us during the preseason for us on special teams, and we’re looking for improvement in that area.”

Roseman said that being good on special teams is all about a mentality, and has seen plenty of good players over the years who didn’t want to commit to that part of the game.

“You’re talking about guys that were stars in college, have always been starters, and now it’s a different mentality,” said Roseman, who was speaking in general terms. “When they are in college or even when they are in the early part of their careers they think of it almost as a punishment as opposed to a way they can make an impact on the football team.”

David Wilson averaged 36 yards per kick return against the Eagles Sunday night. Andy Reid has made it known multiple times already this week that the special teams’ performance was unacceptable. His actions prove just how serious he was about it.

Roseman also spoke about the impact that rookie defensive tackle Fletcher Cox has made in his first four games with the Eagles.

“He’s making a difference, both in the run and the pass game,” said Roseman. “He can push the pocket, he can get off the ball, he can win on the edges of the offensive alignment. The numbers may not always be there because quarterbacks are stepping up in terms of sacks, but he is making a huge difference.”

Cox has 18 tackles (one for a loss), a sack and seven QB hurries through four games.