Context:

The Philadelphia Eagles added running back Ian Wheeler to their practice squad, placing a 25-year-old with a path that has zigzagged through several NFL stints and a standout season in the UFL. Wheeler went undrafted out of Howard in 2024 and initially signed with the Bears, but was waived with an injury settlement in 2025. He briefly joined the Saints’ practice squad late in 2025, then starred for the Louisville Kings in 2026, earning United Bowl MVP after nine games and 371 rushing yards on 68 carries and six touchdowns. He also spent time with the Bills in June 2026 but did not make the roster. Wheeler has yet to appear in an NFL game, and the move with Philadelphia signals continued depth-building as he seeks a path back to the league.

Dive Deeper:

• Ian Wheeler, 25, was signed to the Philadelphia Eagles' practice squad, marking his latest NFL organization after a series of brief stints.

• He entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent out of Howard in 2024 and initially signed with the Chicago Bears, before being waived with an injury settlement in 2025.

• Wheeler then spent a short period on the New Orleans Saints' practice squad at the end of November 2025.

• In 2026, he played for the Louisville Kings of the United Football League (UFL), appearing in nine games and posting 68 rushing attempts for 371 yards (5.46 yards per carry) and six touchdowns, earning United Bowl MVP honors.

• He briefly joined the Buffalo Bills in June 2026 but was among the final roster cuts, leaving him with no NFL game appearances to date.