By Michael McCarthy
If you are wondering whether Eric Rowe, drafted by the Eagles in the 2nd round, will play defensive back or safety:
Rowe, speaking to the media, said that it is a question not even head coach Chip Kelly has answered for him.
Rowe’s ability to play either spot is what the Eagles like about the 6-1, 205 pound defensive back. Rowe spent the first three seasons in Utah at safety before moving over to cornerback for his senior season.
“I’m comfortable at both of them,” Rowe said. “If I had a preference, I would say cornerback.”
After losing Nate Allen to the Oakland Raiders earlier this offseason, the Eagles have Earl Wolff, Ed Reynolds and Jerome Couplin on their safety depth chart opposite Malcolm Jenkins.
“He is a press corner,” Kelly said of Rowe. “He is long, very physical.”
Rowe visited Philly last month.
“More the impression to play corner,” Rowe said, “but also to know both positions.”
Rowe said he enjoyed his only season at cornerback, and has since become fond of watching tape of New York Jets cornerback Darrelle Revis and Cleveland Browns cornerback Joe Haden.
“I feel like I have more growth there,” Rowe said. “I only have one year experience and I feel like I did a lot of good there, so with more practice and more experience I feel like I can get better.”
As for his style at cornerback?
“Physical. Press-man. Competitor. Love to hit, love to come on the blitz and tackle,” Rowe said. “I love to take charge at the line of scrimmage. I would say I’m an aggressive corner.”
