Birds Cut White

The Eagles on Tuesday afternoon initiated a notable roster transaction, announcing the release of veteran linebacker Devin White, who the team had signed to a 1-year, $4 million deal in March.

A seemingly high-upside dart throw amongst a relatively shallow pool of free agents, White, a 2019 first-round pick, was asked to provide experience and credibility to a revamped linebacking unit.

He wasted little time showcasing his speed and athleticism, as his ability to carry running back Saquon Barkley on a wheel route down the sideline at camp served as a reminder of what he could add to a second level if he could become more consistent.

White was seeking redemption and a resurgence on the heels of a disappointing end to his five-year stint with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The one-year deal – not exactly what the former All Pro had sought in free agency – allowed White to bet on himself, presumably motivated to use his second act as a springboard in his return to relevance.

Also working in his favor is that White joined an Eagles defense presided over by veteran coordinator Vic Fangio, who’s known for optimizing linebacker play.

GETTY IMAGES: The Eagles cut LB Devin White after four games, an example of a disappointing free-agent signing.

Everything appeared to align for White, until it didn’t.

White opened every training camp practice – minus the joint practice in Foxboro, Mass., against the Patrtots – with the first team alongside Zack Baun.

But as camp progressed, and third-year linebacker Nakobe Dean began rounding into form, White essentially played himself out of a starting job.

By camp’s end, it was evident Dean had surpassed him, putting the Eagles in a difficult bind.

The White signing was always an all-or-nothing attempt at solidifying a traditionally faulty second level.

Without securing a starting role, White faced no real job, as Fangio doesn’t traditionally rotate inside linebackers and White doesn’t play special teams, an essential skill for depth players.

His lack of third phase involvement certainly contributed to his relegation to the team’s weekly inactive list, whereas others at his position – like second-year pro Ben VanSumeren and veteran Oren Burks – excel in that phase.

Despite the extreme challenges of being benched, White remained optimistic, didn’t point fingers and was the consummate pro when discussing the situation with the media.

For the Eagles, young players, like VanSumeren and rookie Jeremiah Trotter Jr., have climbed the depth chart and are one play away. As for White, the 26-year-old is now free to sign with any team, as the two sides parted ways ahead of the Nov. 4 trade deadline.

The Eagles now have a roster spot available , which could belong to safety Sydney Brown once he’s ready to return, as his 21-day window was opened Monday along with the same window for rookie receiver Ainias Smith.

– Andrew DiCecco (@AndrewDiCecco) is a Staff Reporter/Content Producer for InsideTheBirds.com.