Versatiliy is a word tossed about a lot in football circles. Coaches crave such players, like offensive linemen capable of playing multipe positions along the line.

Nick Cole gives the Eagles that along the interior of the offensive line. Short and stout, the 6-foot, 350-pound Cole is a jack-of-all-trades type of player. He's the team's backup center. He also serves as a backup guard and a contributor on special teams.

Cole made his first career start in 2007, replacing Todd Herremans at left guard against the Giants on Dec. 9. And though the Eagles came up on the short end of a 16-13 outcome, Cole was in the lineup for a six-play, 68-yard touchdown-producing drive to open the game.

Cole and Co. provided the blocking on a drive that included three Brian Westbrook runs that netted 30 yards (two of which were to the left side), and three passes by Donovan McNabb, including an 18-yarder to cap off the drive. On the touchdown, McNabb faked an end-around, rolled to the right and tossed a short pass to Westbrook for the score.

Cole played in all 16 games in 2007, seeing spot duty along the line in addition to his one start. On special teams, he was credited with 123 blocks and 119 special teams production points.

A three-year starter at guard and tackle at New Mexico State, Cole impressed Eagles coaches and made the club as an undrafted rookie free agent in 2006. He learned the center position and took valuable snaps as the team's backup center in his rookie year. He also was used as a blocking back in certain short-yardage situations. He saw action in all 16 regular season games and both postseason contests.

As reserve linemen go, Cole is in a mix that includes Max Jean-Gilles, Winston Justice and Scott Young. But he knows the more he can do, the more valuable he is to the team.

- BOB KENT

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

Cole is a powerful offensive lineman who is short but very stout and explosive. He has done well in the limited time on the field, and he should push for playing time at center and at guard. Cole would probably benefit from improving his conditioning a bit, but he is a good, young lineman here.

Can he be a starter? I don't know. I haven't seen enough of him. But the Eagles know they have a good young lineman in Cole, who is trying to make some headway this year.