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Eagles UDFA Corey Clement pushing for a 53-man roster spot

By George Stockburger

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 02: Running back Corey Clement of Wisconsin answers questions from the media on Day 2 of the NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center on March 2, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 02: Running back Corey Clement of Wisconsin answers questions from the media on Day 2 of the NFL Combine at the Indiana Convention Center on March 2, 2017 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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Clement is the latest Eagles UDFA to grab the attention of fans

Among a motley of running backs in Philadelphia Eagles midnight green is former Wisconsin Badger Corey Clement. A surprise undrafted free agent many expected would go early on the third day of the NFL Draft, Clement was quickly signed by his hometown Eagles.

Going into training camp the chances of Clement breaking camp were virtually zero. The organization added veteran LeGarrette Blount to lead a group consisting of specialist Darren Sproles, sophomore back Wendell Smallwood, and rookie Sproles 2.0 Donnel Pumphrey from San Diego State.

Blount, Sproles, and Pumphrey were nearly guaranteed a spot on the 53-man roster, while Smallwood, a mid-round 2016 draft pick out of West Virginia, was a strong candidate.

After bursting onto the scene early at the NovaCare Complex Smallwood has taken a step back in his development. A hamstring injury hasn’t helped his chances this summer, and the coaching staff is taking notice.

Clement meanwhile lit up the field in a 20-16 win over the Bills Thursday night, leading the Eagles with 34 rushing yards and a touchdown. A 24-yard run in the second quarter opened the eyes of fans at a packed Lincoln Financial Field.

Clement rushed for over 3,000 yards at Wisconsin, nearly leading the team to a Big Ten championship before falling to Penn State. For a team still questioning the long-term future at running back, seeing Clement push for a roster spot is highly encouraging.

Smallwood missed three games and only started as many as a rookie in 2016, rushing for three touchdowns and 312 yards. Admittedly out of shape, Smallwood came into training camp looking to prove he can lead the team going forward.

Next: Philadelphia Eagles Roster Predictions

For now, it seems the undrafted rookie Clement may be pushing the 153rd overall pick out of Philadelphia.

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