Jamar Chaney

Chaney will compete for a roster spot at inside linebacker in Philadelphia's 3-4. DeMeco Ryans and Mychal Kendricks are locked in as starters, so Chaney is fighting for a depth role.

There has been talk of Chaney losing his starting role in Philadelphia due to the additions of Mychal Kendricks and DeMeco Ryans, but it would generally be a surprise if Casey Matthews or Brian Rolle forced Chaney to the bench given that he was the team’s best linebacker a year ago. Expect Chaney to start on the outside for the Eagles, with last year's totals of 92 tackles and three interceptions well within range again in 2012. Like Kendricks, Chaney is an athletic linebacker and should remain a factor in coverage after defending eight passes last year.

Chaney was initially an afterthought after he fell to the seventh round of the 2010 draft, but the former Mississippi State standout looked like a steal when he was forced into action late last year. In three games as a starter (including Philadelphia's Wild Card playoff game against the Packers), Chaney totaled 33 tackles, with 29 solo stops. He also forced two fumbles. Chaney has a history of knee problems, but he has defensive back speed and demonstrated a great deal of potential last year. He’s likely to start for Philadelphia in 2011, be it in the middle or outside, and he’s worth a selection in most IDP drafts.

Chaney will provide depth at all three linebacker positions.