This isn't new for Treyvon Hester. He played last year with Oakland, saw action in 14 games, recorded 19 total tackles and got enough of a taste of the NFL that it felt like he belonged. But for Hester, promoted to the active roster this week from the practice squad, Sunday is going to be like starting all over again.
"It's a great feeling, something I've been waiting for. I've worked hard and I'm excited," said Hester, a seventh-round draft pick from Toledo in 2017. "My family has been right there with me and the man upstairs, the Lord, He's been blessing me. I'm ready if the defense needs me."
Hester is a powerfully built 6-2, 304-pounder who fell out of favor when the Raiders changed their coaching staff and defensive scheme. The Eagles signed Hester to the practice squad on September 7 and promoted him this week, releasing defensive tackle Bruce Hector (later added to the practice squad) to make room for Hester.
"This scheme is great for me and I'm in a good position," Hester said. "Everybody has welcomed me and I feel like I'm playing good football and I know what I'm doing out there. I've got a good foundation here and I'm ready to go."
Hester is likely to be active as a reserve defensive tackle along with Fletcher Cox, Destiny Vaeao, and Haloti Ngata. How much he plays, if active, remains to be seen, but Hester has taken reps all week.
"It's going to be surreal. I'm excited," Hester said. "I'm here to do my part. Whatever that role is, I'm going to be ready to play and help this team win.
