The Philadelphia Eagles have given up five touchdown passes in back-to-back blowout losses. On top of that, starting cornerback Nolan Carroll broke his ankle in the first quarter of the Eagles 45-14 loss to the Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving Day.
Rookie Eric Rowe, who hasn't played much this season, went through some growing pains against Matthew Stafford and the Lions offense. On Rowe's first play after replacing the injured Carroll, Golden Tate beat him on a slant route and gained 15 yards for a first down. Calvin Johnson also got the best of the rookie cornerback on two touchdown plays.
At 4-7 on the season, it's time for the Eagles see what they have in Rowe. Defensive coordinator Bill Davis confirmed in a press conference on Tuesday that Rowe will start at the outside cornerback position for the remainder of the year.
Rowe played 14 snaps in coverage against Johnson, who is recognized as one the best receivers in the NFL. He gave up four receptions, including two touchdowns.
"I think Eric grew a little bit," Davis said, via Matt Lombardo of NJ.com. "Two of those catches (against Johnson) were in the field when Eric was way too soft and off the line of scrimmage. We talked about it. He just has to get up there, believe in himself and challenge him. "
The Eagles made a trade with the Miami Dolphins to move up five spots in the draft and selected Rowe with the No. 47 overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft.
"We picked him for his ability," Davis said. "His speed. His ball-skills. His length."
Rowe intercepted Ryan Fitzpatrick in a Week 3 win against the New York Jets, but other than that game, he hasn't gotten many reps on defense.
Rowe will make his first NFL start against Tom Brady and the New England Patriots.
Michael Malia is a contributing intern for Eagledelphia. Follow him on Facebook (Michael Malia) or Twitter @Michael_Malia.
