Parris Campbell of the Eagles is fighting for a spot on the roster as the job as WR3 is still within reach

PHILADELPHIA – Parris Campbell had the best chance of becoming the Philadelphia Eagles' third wide receiver at the start of training camp. He has a lot of catching up to do.

A groin injury sidelined Campbell for several practices, while Britain Covey, Johnny Wilson and John Ross were considered candidates for the third wide receiver job. Covey and Wilson have overtaken Campbell in the pecking order.

After a week of training and another warm-up game, Campbell now has the chance to get back into pole position for the job that once belonged to him.

“I need reps. Reps, reps, reps,” Campbell said. “I think I missed six practices. That's a lot of time. I'm a little rusty here and there and I need to get back out there and get into the rhythm. I need to get a few little things right and get a handle on.”

“The more repetitions, the better.”

Campbell will likely play in Saturday's final game of the season against the Minnesota Vikings and show the Eagles he's still valuable as the third wide receiver in this offense. He's been playing with Covey on the first team since returning to practice, but he was the starting guard before his injury.

“It's about making the most of every opportunity,” Campbell said. “Now that I'm back, it's just about doing the right things and showing that I'm good and things like that. I think it's just about making the most of every opportunity.”

Campbell was supposed to be out for another week, but he came back quicker. That was his goal, as he always does with short- or long-term injuries. He couldn't afford to lose any more time, knowing what the Eagles' roster looked like.

It is still unclear whether the Eagles will look outside the organization for a third wide receiver. Covey and Wilson are essentially fixed in the squad, while Ross is still on the table. The third wide receiver appears to be a mix of Covey, Wilson and Campbell – depending on what the Eagles think is appropriate.

Campbell needs to prove to the Eagles that they don't need outside help at WR3. Even if the Eagles get someone else, he wants to be part of the equation.

“The man in the mirror is always trying to get better,” Campbell said. “I know these guys, they know what I have to offer, they know what I can do, but it's also about showing it and being out there and doing it.”

“I feel like I did that at the beginning of camp. I don't think that can be washed away…

“It's nice to be back. Seeing number 80 out there and going into the film room and being able to watch myself and critique myself. I don't think it's a disservice, but it's always about getting better.”