Former Eagles Star WR Pushing For Role With NFC Rival

Former Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver Jordan Matthews made some waves in Week 1 of the preseason.

Now playing tight end for the Carolina Panthers, the 32-year-old impressed in his first game action since 2019. The Panthers fell to the New England Patriots 17-3 last Thursday, but it was a glimpse of encouragement for Matthews, who desperately needed an edge in his pursuit for a roster spot. He caught all three of his targets for 48 yards, leading the team in receiving and yards per reception (16.0).

Carolina's personnel woes have seeped into the 2024-25 campaign. The tight end rotation has been the biggest mystery in recent weeks. While injuries have played a part in the confusion, there's also uncertainty of whether the current leaders on the depth chart are best suited to maximize quarterback Bryce Young's potential.

Tommy Tremble, who was sidelined in last week's matchup with a hamstring injury, is set to earn a roster spot and be the Week 1 starter. Ian Thomas is the other presumed favorite, as is 2024 fourth-round draft pick Ja'Tavion Sanders.

Matthews is likely to see more opportunities in the Panthers' last two preseason games against the New York Jets (8/17) and Buffalo Bills (8/24). There's a real possibility that he starts the year on the practice squad, but the veteran's hopes of making the final 53-man roster are undoubtedly trending up.

A comeback is brewing in Carolina.