EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. – It was only a handful of plays in the fourth preseason game, but for defensive tackle Beau Allen it was just enough to knock off the rust and get set for the start of the regular season on September 10 at Washington.

Allen, who suffered a torn pectoral muscle in the offseason, was placed on the active roster last Friday, practiced three times, and started against the New York Jets on Thursday night in the preseason finale, recording two total tackles.

And now he's ready for Washington.

"I think it's important to remember that I practiced only three times before playing in an NFL game, but it felt really good to be back out there," Allen said. "I think the biggest thing is getting my strength back. I'll be working in the weight room getting that strength back. I'll be working on my hand speed and things like that. The nice thing is that I'll be practicing all next week. I'll be ready to go. We still have time."

Allen is an important part of the defensive tackle picture as the Eagles envision having depth to wear down offensive lines. Allen projects as the team's third tackle in the rotation behind Fletcher Cox and Tim Jernigan.

He brings power and agility to the line, and the Eagles need Allen to be ready to play extended snaps.

"This was a good start for me," he said. "I felt like I belonged on an NFL field. Now I've got to get ready for Washington, and I will do that. I will be ready. Tonight was the first step. It was a good way to get some game time in and get ready for the regular season."

Allen played 40 percent of the snaps last season and he could play just as much in 2017 as the Eagles look to attack in waves. He is back and on track to play Washington. That's all good news for the Eagles' defense.