The Philadelphia Eagles lost one of their developmental defensive backs before they could get him back onto the practice squad. The Indianapolis Colts claimed Kapena Gushiken off waivers after Philadelphia waived the rookie Sunday while establishing its initial 53-man roster.
Gushiken joined Philadelphia as an undrafted free agent following the 2026 NFL draft after finishing his college career at Ole Miss. He began his career at Saddleback Community College before spending two seasons at Washington State and eventually transferring to the SEC.
The 5-foot-10, 189-pound defensive back started 12 games for Ole Miss in 2025 and recorded 55 tackles. His combination of experience at safety and in the slot made him an intriguing developmental option
for Vic Fangio's secondary, while his athleticism also offered potential value on special teams. Philadelphia gave Gushiken one of its larger financial commitments among this year's undrafted rookie class, guaranteeing him a reported $272,500, an indication that the organization viewed him as more than simply a camp body.
Gushiken ultimately couldn't break through a crowded secondary. The Eagles kept nine defensive backs on their initial roster, including Quinyon Mitchell, Riq Woolen, Cooper DeJean, Kelee Ringo, Mac McWilliams, Andrew Mukuba, Marcus Epps, Jonathan Jones and Michael Carter II.
Philadelphia would have been able to bring Gushiken back on the practice squad had he cleared waivers. Instead, Indianapolis saw enough during his preseason and college career to give him a spot on its active roster.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Colts claim Eagles DB Kapena Gushiken off waivers
