The Eagles’ decision to sign veteran linebacker Stephen Tulloch was triggered by backup middle linebacker Joe Walker’s season-ending ACL injury in Thursday night’s preseason win over the Pittsburgh Steelers.
But Doug Pederson suggested Monday that Tulloch will be given an opportunity to compete for the starting middle linebacker job, currently held by Jordan Hicks.
“Obviously, he’s familiar with coach (Jim) Schwartz’s defense,’’ Pederson said. “At the same time, he’s coming in to compete for that linebacker spot there in the middle. It’s just unfortunate that with the injury to Joe, we need depth to fill that spot.