Antonio

Dixon

Dixon was limited to just four games last season by a torn triceps, but has proven to be a solid run-stuffer since signing as an undrafted free agent in 2009. He is the Eagles’ lone restricted free agent.

Dixon is more run stuffer than pass rusher and doesn’t quite fit DL coach Jim Washburn’s Wide-9 system as well as he did Sean McDermott’s old defense. The Eagles still value the 6-foot-3, 322-pound road grater, however, and Dixon should have no trouble avoiding offer sheets on his $1.927M tender.

Dixon had recently been tendered at the second-round level. Limited to four games by a torn triceps last season, Dixon made just four tackles before being sent to injured reserve. He started 10 games in 2010, making 30 tackles and two sacks. He’ll provide depth as a run stuffer.

Dixon was a strong run-stuffer two years ago under Sean McDermott, but has been a poor fit in Jim Washburn’s wide-nine scheme. McDermott is now running the Panthers defense.

The 6'3/322 Dixon is a strong run-stuffer, but Washburn’s primary objective is getting to the passer. Despite Bowen’s concerns, Dixon figures to make the team and play regular snaps, especially with Mike Patterson (brain surgery) out of action. Dixon will rotate with Cullen Jenkins, Derek Landri and rookie Fletcher Cox.

Dixon has been back on the field for OTAs and insists both his back and his triceps are 100 percent healed. Although he was limited to just four games last season, Dixon had emerged as a strong run-stuffer down the stretch in 2010.

Patterson has been ruled out for training camp and it would not be a surprise if he misses more time than that. But even if Dixon wins the starting job, it will only be a nominal designation. First-round pick Fletcher Cox, versatile Cullen Jenkins and run-stuffer Derek Landri will all rotate heavily. The Eagles’ defense won’t miss Patterson too sorely.

Dixon was waived at final cuts by the Eagles. Dixon had success as a run-stuffer in 2010, but proved to be a poor fit for Jim Washburn’s “wide-nine” scheme in 2011. Dixon could become a part of the defensive-line rotation for a Colts team that’s struggled against the run this season, and provides insurance for NT Martin Tevaseu (ankle).

Moore’s release is a bit surprising because he was Indy’s primary passing-down back when healthy. The Colts feel better about their running back depth chart now, with Donald Brown healthy and Vick Ballard coming on. Dixon was only in Indianapolis for a few weeks on a trial run. He didn’t show enough.

Dixon tore his triceps during the second half of Sunday’s loss to the Niners. The underrated run-stuffer will be a restricted free agent after this season. Dixon has been replaced on the roster by DT Derek Landri.