ESPN: Former Giants Favorite Starter Sign a Blockbuster Deal With Eagles.
Training camp is in full swing and the Philadelphia Eagles have announced many roster changes. The Eagles signed veteran offensive tackle Nick Gates, they revealed on July 30. To create space on the roster, the organization also waived Mario Goodrich, a cornerback.
In 2022, Goodrich joined Philadelphia as an undrafted free agent. Before being signed to the Eagles’ active roster for four games in 2023, he played his whole rookie season on the practice squad. In one of those contests, the undrafted corner finished with five total tackles.
After five seasons in the NFL, Gates, 28, played his first four seasons with the New York Giants. From 2019 to 2022, he participated in 44 games for New York, starting 29 of them. He played his entire 2023 season with the Washington Commanders, making 13 appearances and starting ten.
The Eagles should have more depth on the offensive line with Gates added, especially at center, where he is most comfortable. Going ahead, he ought to be a player to keep an eye on.
Eliot Shorr-Parks of 94WIP, an Eagles reporter, stated on X that “Gates could win a roster spot.” “I think this goes beyond just a camp body signing. There are plenty of available backup places, and his versatility and experience will be helpful.
OL Nick Gates of the Philadelphia Eagles brings depth and experience to the line
In his five years on the O-line, Gates has proven to be incredibly versatile. According to Pro Football Focus statistics, he has played 1,848 plays at center, 226 at left guard, and 198 at right tackle. In addition, he has 77 snaps at right guard.
But his history of injuries is a little alarming.
In Week 2 of the 2021 season, Gates sustained a horrific break to his tibia that nearly broke, breaking his fibula at the same time. The damage was repaired through seven separate surgeries as a result of the many fractures and the problems that followed.
After making a full recovery, he has remained mostly stable. The 6-foot-6, 312-pound Gates was a serviceable player for the Commanders last season, playing 641 offensive snaps (455 pass blocks). He allowed ten hurries, five sacks, and six quarterback hits.
Gates is a “Take no Crap” player for the Eagles.
So what are the Eagles gaining in Gates, besides depth and experience? To put it bluntly, Gates is a physical player:
According to The Athletic, Gates declared after signing with Washington in March 2023, “Being a leader… I take no crap.” When they see me on the pitch, the players know what to expect. It helps, I believe, that they are at ease with me on the field.
Nick is an intense rival. Former Washington left tackle Charles Leno Jr. said of Gates, “You need guys like that on every team.” Additionally, he provides the offensive line with the necessary edge. He can consistently step right up to the line, and I don’t see anything wrong with that.
Gates will probably cover for Cam Jurgens at center. Dylan McMahon will be his opponent for that position. In the event that the O-line sustains injuries, he might also play guard.
Tyler Steen, the expected starting at right guard, has missed time due to an ankle injury. Mekhi Becton, a recent recruit, has been playing RG well in his place, and Darian Kinnard has also been seeing action there. With preseason quickly approaching, it will be interesting to watch how things work out.
