UPDATE [2:40 p.m.] -- Some good news for Eagles fans. Defensive tackle Fletcher Cox and running back Darren Sproles -- both absent from the teams optional OTAs -- have both been spotted at NovaCare today. They're presumably there to take their mandatory physicals prior to the start of minicamp practices on Tuesday.
FROM EARLIER
On Friday, Philadelphia Eagles head coach Doug Pederson met with the media as the conclusion of the team's optional OTAs and told reporters that he believed Fletcher Cox -- as well as Darren Sproles -- would be return this week for their not-so-optional minicamp.
"All indications [are that he will be here]," Pederson said on Friday. "Would love to have him here. Don't know for sure. Hasn't made that official yet, but would fully expect him to be here on Monday for the mandatory physicals."
Although the coach has yet to see the 25-year-old defensive tackle, he reaffirmed on Monday that he believes Cox will show up and take part in this week's session.
Cox, who is entering the final year of his rookie deal and could thrive under new defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz, is likely in line for a big payday after recording 9.5 sacks in 2015 and earning his first Pro Bowl nod and second straight AP All-NFL Second Team honor.
There was much speculation that Cox's absence would continue into the mandatory period, which would result in a fine but could help him gain leverage in his negotiations with the Eagles. And if that didn't help expedite the process, there was concern that a potential holdout would linger into training camp.
Pederson, however, doesn't expect that to be the case and said last week that although he hasn't spoken to Cox, Howie Roseman has been in touch with his agent and there was no indication that a holdout was imminent.
We'll find out more tomorrow when the team holds its first workout of the mandatory minicamp, which is open to reporters. And if Cox is indeed there, we'll likely have more from him when he speaks in the locker room following practice.
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