Eagles will use first four games to evaluate the new offense

The Philadelphia Eagles will give Sean Mannion’s new offense time to establish its identity, but patience will not be confused with complacency. Following 53-man roster cuts, Jeff McLane asked general manager Howie Roseman how the installation of a new offense affects potential trades, outside additions and the evaluation of players already on the roster.

“There has to be a level of patience about how guys are going to look,” Roseman said. “We’re not showing everything in the preseason. That’s not what anyone’s doing.”

“There has to be a level of patience about how guys are going to look,” Roseman said. “We’re not showing everything in the preseason. That’s not what anyone’s doing.”

Philadelphia produced limited offense during its three preseason games, but Jalen Hurts and most of the starting unit did not play. Mannion also had no reason to reveal the schemes and adjustments the Eagles plan to use when the results begin to be counted. Roseman described the opening four games as another ramp-up period. That window will allow the organization to evaluate the offense against regular-season game plans and starting-caliber opponents.

Patience will have limits. Roseman noted that the trade deadline remains months away and said Philadelphia possesses the resources to improve its roster.

“The 70 guys that are going to be on our team here in the next 24 hours, we like, we’re excited about,” Roseman said. “But at the same token, we’re not handing out any scholarships.”

“The 70 guys that are going to be on our team here in the next 24 hours, we like, we’re excited about,” Roseman said. “But at the same token, we’re not handing out any scholarships.”

That final line was the message. Making the initial roster or practice squad does not guarantee season-long employment or a permanent place in the rotation. The Eagles will let their offense develop while continuing to search for upgrades. If a weakness becomes apparent during September, Roseman has the draft capital and salary-cap flexibility to respond.