The Eagles have signed undrafted rookie running back Joique Bell (pronounced JOYK), 5-11, to the active 53-man roster and released wide receiver Hank Baskett. Bell, a product of division II Wayne State, had been a member of the Buffalo Bills practice squad.
Head coach Andy Reid said yesterday on his weekly radio show that Bell could serve as a valuable special teamer and as a runner as well. In his four preseason games with the Bills, Bell rushed for 152 yards on 27 carries (5.6 yards per carry). Bell now joins a backfield that includes LeSean McCoy, Mike Bell, Eldra Buckley and Owen Schmitt.
In his four seasons at Wayne State, Bell compiled 2,084 rushing yards, becoming the school's all-time leading rusher. He also won the 2009 Harlon Hill award, given to the top football player in division II.
Baskett re-signed with the Eagles in the off-season after originally joining the team via trade as a rookie in 2006. He was active for both of the first two games but did not record a catch.
-- Posted by Bo Wulf, 3:11 p.m., September 21
