Typically, head coach Andy Reid doesn't play his starters in the preseason finale.

When the Eagles close out the exhibition slate this Thursday against the Jets, Reid said on Sunday that King Dunlap will not play at left tackle.

The reason? Dunlap has won the starting job over Demetress Bell.

"You've got to give him credit for what he's done. He's got a long road here to go this season and staying healthy and doing all of those things and playing aggressive football week in and week out. He hasn't had to do that (yet) at this level but you have to give him credit for the battle that he's been in here with Demetress," Reid said.

"They went after it and they're still going to go after it. Demetress isn't just going to concede. That's not what he is going to do. I think we are fortunate to have two guys here that we know can play but King ended up being the guy that got the number one spot."

Dunlap did not figure to be in the starting mix when he re-signed with the team on March 30. He was brought back after the team learned that Jason Peters had ruptured his Achilles. The Eagles signed Bell on April 4 and was expected to take over the starting left tackle position. Bell worked with the first-team offense throughout the spring and start of Training Camp.

However, Dunlap was inserted into the first-team offense at the first practice following the preseason opener against the Steelers. Reid indicated after the depth chart change that when Dunlap re-signed with the Eagles he would be given a fair opportunity to win the job. With two strong preseason performances working with the starters, Dunlap has secured the starting role.

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