Roxborough High graduate gets chance to work out for the Eagles

Roxborough’s Rasheed Bailey lived out his childhood dream on Wednesday as he worked out for the Philadelphia Eagles. 

The wide receiver, Delaware Valley University’s all-time leader in career receiving yards, was chosen after impressing Eagles’ scouts at pro day two weeks ago at Villanova University.

“It’s been a long journey waiting for this process,” said the 21-year-old. “But it’s an amazing feeling to open a couple eyes and get my name out there.”

Bailey arrived at the NovaCare Complex at 8 a.m. along with fellow Delaware Valley player and quarterback Aaron Wilmer, who led the Aggies to a 9-2 record and an at-large berth in the NCAA Division III playoffs last season.

“It was a great opportunity for us to be together,” Bailey said. “You could see the chemistry.”

In December, Bailey was named the Maxwell Football Club’s Brian Westbrook player of the year due to his record-breaking 80 receptions for 1,707 yards and 19 touchdowns last season.

In three years as a starter, Bailey made 165 catches for a record 3,138 yards and 29 touchdowns. The 6’2″, 205-pounder has been clocked at between 4.5 and 4.6 seconds in the 40-yard dash.

Aggies’ Head Coach Duke Greco is proud of his star players for “working their tails off.”

“Every NFL team except for the 49ers has called asking about Bailey,” Greco said. “But at pro day, the 49ers’ scouts were all over him.”

Greco said the Eagles’ staff kept Bailey after the work out for a tour of the facilities.

“He’s a Philly kid so it’s a big honor for him,” Greco said. “And he’s a good kid and a good player. I’d be stunned if he doesn’t get an opportunity.”

Growing up in the Abbotsford Homes complex in East Falls, Bailey always dreamt of playing pro football for his home team. With graduation in May — “that will be the best day of my life,” Bailey says — the business and marketing major feels so close to making that dream a reality.

“I always say chase your dreams and don’t let anybody stop you,” Bailey said.