Despite Eagles’ opposition, NFL OKs new rule

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. – Despite a no vote from the Eagles, the NFL approved a new rule today for next season that will allow a defensive player to wear the same kind of communication device that have been used in the helmets of quarterbacks.

The Eagles were one of seven teams to vote against the new rule, which passed by one vote. Eagles coach Andy Reid had said at the scouting combine in Indianapolis that he was opposed to the idea because he thought it would be too difficult to determine which player would wear the helmet with the communication device.

The league's competition committee recommended the approval of the device, which, in many cases, will eliminate the need for defensive coordinators to use hand signals when calling plays. The new rule will allow one defensive player to be on the field with a helmet that contains the communication device. A second player will also be allowed to have the communication device, but the two players cannot be on the field at the same time.

If, for example, linebacker Omar Gaither and safety Brian Dawkins were designated as the two players with the communication device, they could both play at the same time, but one of them would have to have a second helmet ready on the sideline in case the other was injured during the game. If both players are on the field with the communication device, a team can be assessed a 5-yard illegal substation penalty.

Hanson signs tender. Eagles cornerback Joselio Hanson signed the restricted free-agent tender he received back in February. The one-year tender is worth $1.47 million for Hanson, who is likely to be the team's third cornerback behind free-agent addition Asante Samuel and veteran Sheldon Brown.

Hanson, 26, opened last season as the Eagles' fourth cornerback, but climbed ahead of Will James on the depth chart because defensive coordinator Jim Johnson was so impressed by his cover ability. Hanson even started four games in place of an injured Lito Sheppard, who is likely to be traded before the start of this month's draft.

According to Eagles team statistics, Hanson had a career-high 45 tackles, one sack and a fumble recovery.