E.J. Jenkins entered the NFL as an oversized wide receiver searching for a position. He will enter the 2026 regular season as one of four tight ends on the Philadelphia Eagles’ initial 53-man roster. Reuben Frank asked general manager Howie Roseman what Jenkins had shown the organization over the summer.
“E.J. is a great story,” Roseman said. “When you talk about a receiver at Georgia Tech who transformed his body, he’s 260 pounds, he’s 6-foot-6, he’s got 34-inch arms.”
Jenkins’ receiving background has always made him an intriguing target. His development as a blocker and pass protector ultimately separated him from the other tight ends competing for roster spots.
“His pass protection — when we went over his pass protection, it is really, really good
to have a tight end who’s able to pass protect like he is and then in the run game be able to help,” Roseman said.
Jenkins also strengthened his value by contributing on special teams. That versatility helped him survive a competition that included Cameron Latu, Stone Smartt and Grant Calcaterra, who was placed on injured reserve with a designation to return. Dallas Goedert remains Philadelphia’s starter, with second-round pick Eli Stowers offering significant receiving potential. Johnny Mundt supplies proven blocking ability and experience.
“Great developmental story for our organization,” Roseman said, “and really just excited about the role that he can have on this football team.”
Jenkins gives Sean Mannion another option who can align as an in-line blocker, protect the passer or become a large target in the passing game.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: How E.J. Jenkins earned his place on Eagles’ 53-man roster
