Eagles set to field several roster hopefuls in final preseason matchup against Bengals

Philadelphia will play its third and final preseason game on Friday night against the Cincinnati Bengals, with kickoff scheduled for 8:00 p.m. Eastern time. The contest provides a last opportunity for several players on the fringe of the roster to showcase their abilities before the regular season begins.

Wide receiver Makai Lemon, the team's third-string receiver and a 2026 first-round pick, missed the first two preseason games while recovering from a hamstring injury. He is expected to receive a limited number of targets in the game to gain live-action experience.

Defensive linemen Uar Bernard and edge rusher Joshua Weru, who each posted notable plays in the previous preseason game against the Patriots, will also see action as they vie for spots on the 53-man roster.

Seventh-round rookie edge rusher Keyshawn James-Newby, who missed most practices and games due to an ankle injury but participated fully in the latest practice, is looking to impress in the final preseason outing.

Veteran wide receiver Elijah Moore and cornerback Jonathan Jones remain in consideration for the roster, though both face competition from several younger players at their positions.

Undrafted defensive backs Kapena Gushiken and Maximus Pulley have drawn attention from defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, who noted on Wednesday that the game will be significant for their prospects.

Kicker Jake Elliott and undrafted long snapper Rocco Underwood will also be evaluated, with the coaching staff hoping to see field-goal attempts beyond the extra-point attempts completed earlier in the preseason.

The game will serve as a final assessment period for these players as the Eagles finalize their roster ahead of the upcoming NFL season.