When he signed with the Eagles as an unrestricted free agent two years ago, Matt Schobel envisioned a role as an active, pass-catching reserve tight end in an offense that relied heavily on the position.

However, in two seasons with Philadelphia, the veteran has just 25 receptions for 322 yards and three touchdowns.

Schobel's opportunities, for whatever reason, have been limited. He had a chance for significantly more playing time last season -- with L.J. Smith missing six games with groin and knee injuries -- but finished the season with just 11 catches for 108 yards and a touchdown.

Schobel chipped in one catch in nine games last season. He had two in the Sept. 23 win over Detroit. Schobel went five games without a reception and missed another game with a nasty concussion he sustained against Dallas on Dec. 16.

In 2006, Smith and Schobel combined for 64 receptions for 825 yards and seven touchdowns. In 2007, Smith, Schobel and rookie Brent Celek had 49 catches, 521 yards and three touchdowns. Numbers don't tell the whole story, but the Eagles had a big reduction at tight end from 2006 to 2007, and it certainly could have played a part in the lack of red-zone efficiency.

Schobel is not a classic blocking tight end, but he can move around the formation and get open in the intermediate-range passing game. He gets down the field well and runs well after the catch. And like most reserves, he pitches in where needed on special teams (59 blocks and 53 special teams production points in 2007).

Schobel figures to be challenged for the No. 2 job next season by Celek, who impressed with his play during his rookie campaign.

- BOB KENT

NOTE: PhiladelphiaEagles.com will not profile players scheduled to become unrestricted free agents.

Schobel is a good reserve tight end with this team and I think he could have a greater impact if given the chance. Schobel isn't a fantastic blocker or anything, but he can get down the field and make some catches. He can make some plays. He has the speed and he has the ability to get open. But Schobel hasn't been a contributor on a consistent basis, and when L.J. Smith was sidelined last year, Schobel didn't step up and make a difference.

With the emergence of Brent Celek, Schobel's role is in question now. Is he part of the plan? Will the Eagles add another tight end and challenge Schobel?

Schobel's numbers have been modest since the Eagles signed him as a free agent a few years ago. He is now looking at battling for the No. 2 tight end role behind Smith. Schobel needs to have a great camp to find a larger piece of the pie in this offense.