PHILADELPHIA -- For the second time in as many games, Philadelphia Eagles coach Andy Reid and defensive coordinator Juan Castillo have shaken up the Eagles' linebacking lineup, this time benching embattled rookie fourth-round pick Casey Matthews and replacing him at weakside outside linebacker with another rookie, 5-foot-10 Brian Rolle.
Rolle's work in the Eagles' nickel package the first three weeks of the season earned him the promotion over Matthews, younger brother of Packers Pro Bowl linebacker Clay Matthews.
"Every time I was in there, you heard my name, so the coaches must have seen that light and thought I needed to be on the field more," said Rolle, a sixth-round pick from Ohio State. "I'm going to get in, have fun, work hard and take over that spot. I'm ready for it.
"I feel like I was ready out of college. Coming into this league, nobody gave me a chance and now I get the nod to be a starter. I'm just looking forward to having fun and making plays."
Matthews, a fourth-round pick from Oregon, became the first rookie linebacker to start on opening day for the Eagles since Alonzo Johnson in 1986. Castillo said he'll still play in some situations.
"It's disappointing, but I still have the whole season to get better," Matthews said. "It's a long season, it's still early, and my goal is to get back out there. I'm going to keep working hard and try to get my job back."
Middle linebacker Jamar Chaney and strongside linebacker Moise Fokou, who both moved into those positions last week, will remain in place.
Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press
