Green Bay Packers vs. Philadelphia Eagles: Rookies to watch
Andre Dillard, OT
For an Eagles team that does not have any rookies listed as starters, and have just four draft picks listed on their active roster, first-round pick Andre Dillard makes this list despite his limited action thus far this season.
Although Peters and Johnson are starting at the two tackle positions, Dillard has actually played in all three games so far this season. Albeit five or fewer offensive snaps each game, Dillard is at least getting the chance to see the field, even if it is just as an extra blocker in heavy packages.
Dillard could be in line for a much more important role if anything were to happen to their All-Pro tackles. Both Peters and Johnson have missed some time in recent years due to injury or suspension, so Dillard is likely just one hobbled starter away from significant playing time protecting franchise quarterback Carson Wentz.
Obviously Eagles fans and coaches hope Dillard is reserved to his current role and that the starters stay healthy, but since 2016 the two have combined to miss nearly 2,000 snaps. Dillard is listed as the back-up left tackle, and there is no back-up right tackle listed on the Eagles depth chart, so it would presumably be Dillard as well, or Halapoulivaati Vaitai.
Next. Eagles need Miles Sanders to get on track. dark
Philly used the 22nd overall pick on Dillard and they clearly intend for him to be the left tackle of the future once future Hall of Famer Jason Peters hangs up his cleats. But for now, Dillard will have to sit back and learn, contribute when he can on the field, and prepare himself to come in and play if an opportunity presents itself for him to do so.