NFC East Notes: Cowboys, Eagles, Giants, Redskins

Cowboys

Cowboys owner Jerry Jones said that he expects a big year out of Ezekiel Elliott in 2018 now that the running back is not dealing with the looming suspension issues from last year’s domestic violence accusation against him.

“I think that not having to address that mentally and physically, not having to think about not only the interruption of the potential suspension and the suspension but just the physical interruption, the physical aspect of that,” Jones said, via Todd Archer of ESPN.

• Cowboys executive Stephen Jones said on Wednesday that the team could still sign a veteran safety, per Brandon George of the Dallas Morning News.
• According to George, the Cowboys do not appear to be interested in the safeties still available on the open market, but would still like to acquire Seahawks S Earl Thomas. However, Seattle has not been willing to trade him for Dallas’ asking price.

Eagles

• According to Albert Breer, the Eagles would have considered taking SMU WR Courtland Sutton had they stayed at No. 32 overall as opposed to trading back.
• Aaron Wilson reports that free agent DT Terrell McClain also has interest from the Eagles among other teams.

Giants

New Giants HC Pat Shurmur tells Albert Breer of TheMMQB.com that he didn’t see Eli Manning‘s age in his play from watching him last year.

“No, I didn’t see the age,” Shurmur said. “There’s no substitute for experience and he’s got it. So no, the age doesn’t bother me. … My belief in Eli is in being a pro coach that’s competed against him. And then you wanna touch the paint to see if it’s wet. And my experience with him to this point tells me he still has a chance to play at a very high level.”

• Dan Duggan reports that undrafted CB Bryon Fields (Duke) is signing with the Giants.
• According to Duggan, Ole Miss LB DeMarquis Gates will try out for the Giants.

Redskins

Redskins HC Jay Gruden says second-round RB Derrius Guice‘s role will be “more of a first-, second-down banger” for them this season.

“Really, our role for him is quite easy to see,” Gruden said, via John Keim of ESPN. “It’s first, second down.”

• The Redskins signed seven draft picks Including first-round DL Da’Ron Payne. (NFLTR)