In a candid revelation, Devin White acknowledged his struggles in Tampa Bay last season, but the linebacker seems to have found a new perspective on his situation in Philadelphia. Despite being a healthy scratch for the Eagles, White is embracing his role with a sense of maturity and professionalism.
“Maybe it’s about how you respond,” White reflected, as reported by John McMullen of SI.com. “How you handle yourself because that’s the only thing I can control. I can’t put myself in the game, but I can control my attitude, my health, every practice, and just my swagger in the building. Still come here every day like a pro and handle my business.”
White’s journey in Philadelphia has been marked by ups and downs. While he was initially part of the first team during training camp, a standout performance by Nakobe Dean saw White relegated to a backup role. An ankle injury further complicated matters, leading to his absence during the Eagles’ trip to Brazil in Week 1.
The 2019 fifth overall pick’s time in Tampa Bay ended on a sour note, as his desire for a contract extension led to tensions with the organization. The situation culminated in White requesting a trade, highlighting a tumultuous period in his career.
Reflecting on his tumultuous past, White admitted, “I think my situation last year with Tampa, I don’t think I handled it the best. It was a lot going on that we didn’t expect to go on, just far as you know, starting off asking for a trade. That wasn’t like me, but I did it. I had to own up to it.”
Despite facing criticism for his perceived lack of commitment, White remained resilient and determined to prove his worth. “Everybody say I got benched, but I was literally inactive because of health reasons. And that’s cool. Got past it, came back. They worked me into the game with my foot and played nickel and did good at my role and that was the end of it.”
As White navigates the challenges of a new team and a new role, he recognizes the growth opportunities that come with adversity. “So, it’s like I’ve been in that situation before of just having to overcome adversity. Just make a man out of you at the end of the day.”
With a newfound sense of maturity and resilience, Devin White is determined to make the most of his opportunity in Philadelphia, embracing the challenges that come his way with a sense of professionalism and poise.
