Here is the Eagles' secondary at a glance:
CB Asante Samuel, 5-10, 185, Central Florida, 8th year
An interception machine and three-time Pro Bowler derided for his light touch, coaches say Samuel has gotten stronger and more committed to tackling.
CB Ellis Hobbs, 5-9, 195, Iowa State, 6th year
This feisty and fast corner paired with Samuel in New England and is back from neck surgery with something to prove. He will also return kicks.
FS Nate Allen, 6-1, 210, South Florida, rookie
Smooth and calm, he appears wise beyond his years and has a way of finding the football. We need to see more of his hitting.
SS Quintin Mikell, 5-10, 203, Boise State, 8th year
The dean of the Eagles defense says he is focused on his on-the-field play instead of forcing himself into a leadership role.
S Kurt Coleman, 5-11, 195, Ohio State, rookie
The smart seventh-round draft pick punches above his weight when it comes to hitting.
CB Joselio Hanson, 5-9, 185, Texas Tech, 6th season
Praised as a solid nickel man, Hanson had an up-and-down preseason, making some nice plays but giving up two deep passes.
CB Dimitri Patterson, 5-10, 200, Tuskegee, 5th year
He impressed coaches with a strong preseason and physical play in his second year with the Eagles. He is looking for his first chance to make an impact as an NFL cornerback.
CB Trevard Lindley, 6-0, 183, Kentucky, rookie
The coaches love his special teams play. He has coverage skills but is still raw as a cornerback.
CB Jorrick Calvin, 5-11, 195, Troy, rookie
Acquired from the Cardinals, he can return kicks and punts and play special teams.