Eagles Coach Nick Sirianni on Devin White’s Release

In a surprising twist of events, Philadelphia Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni addressed the release of linebacker Devin White, revealing it was primarily a matter of performance. Sirianni simply noted, “He just wasn’t good enough.”

This statement came after the Eagles regrouped post-bye week. Sirianni highlighted the competition between White and other linebacker prospects like Nakobe Dean and Zach Baun, who ultimately secured the starting position. “That’s not an easy situation,” said Sirianni, commending White for managing a challenging circumstance with professionalism.

The Eagles signed White with the expectation of making him a starting inside linebacker just seven months ago, but he ultimately lost out on that role despite extensive first-team practice reps during training camp. Dean, a third-year, third-round pick from Georgia, emerged as the top candidate for the job. Adding to White’s woes, he didn't contribute on special teams, making him inactive for the first three weeks of the season. His absence was compounded by a recent designation of being “out” for a game, attributed to a “personal matter.”

Unfortunately for White, who never saw game time in an Eagles uniform, he is now an unrestricted free agent, potentially considering opportunities with other teams. The Eagles have shifted their focus to rookie Jeremiah Trotter Jr., a fifth-round draft pick, who will now back up the middle linebacker position. Trotter has seen limited action, playing only three defensive snaps across the first four games.

Other linebackers still on the roster, including veteran Oren Burks and second-year player Ben VanSumeren, have yet to see defensive playtime this season. Sirianni mentioned that the decision to cut White also indicates the coaches' confidence in Trotter, Burks, and VanSumeren’s performance and potential.

Sirianni expressed enthusiasm about the linebacker unit, stating, “I think we have depth and talent that's growing. Bobby King is an excellent teacher, and I see the players developing their skills in fundamental areas such as block destruction and blitzing.”

In a historical sense, White's dismissal positions him alongside notable players like Frank Gore, Joe Flacco, and Tim Tebow, who were a part of the Eagles but never stepped onto the field. Sirianni reflected positively on White’s time with the team, saying, “Since Devin arrived, he proved to be a true professional, handling this tough situation with grace. It’s disappointing for someone with his experience and success in the league.”

As the Eagles move forward without White, fans are left to wonder: What does this mean for the team’s defensive future? Will Trotter and the others rise to the occasion, or is another shake-up on the horizon? Stay tuned as this story develops!