We’re a few days from finding out the winner of Super Bowl LX and the Eagles have already begun preparations to fill out position coaches while simultaneously opening up more availabilities. Making the offseason checklist a little bit longer.
The Good, The Bad, The Ugly
Kevin Patullo
It didn’t take very long after the wildcard round for Howie Roseman to confirm the Eagles would be looking for their 5th Offensive Coordinator during the 6-year Nick Sirianni tenure. Moving on from Patullo was the right decision, as the Eagles struggled 18+ weeks and seemingly burned some extra bridges as things went on. With an Eagles offense that had 10/11 returning offensive starters, (Mekhi Becton – Tyler Steen) the Eagles went from a powerhouse ranking 5th in PPG (29.0) during the 2024 campaign into 19th with only 22.1 PPG.
Chopping off an entire touchdown from the Eagles scoring would’ve been enough points for them to finish the year 14-3. Alas, safe & turnover free football ended their season over a month ago.
Sean Mannion
Since retiring in 2023 Mannion has been involved with the Green Bay Packers as both Offensive Assitant and Quarterbacks Coach. Getting to work alongside Matt LaFleur, viewed as an elite coach around the league. And working with the development of Jordan Love the past few seasons has primed Mannion for a promotion heading into the 2026 season.
Was he the Eagles first option? Probably not. But as Mike McDaniel, Brian Daboll and other top OC/HC options came off the board the Eagles had to strike for their guy. Giving Mannion autonomy with the offense opened the door for creativity and the ability to bring in guys he wanted.
Yesterday, the Eagles hired Ryan Mahaffey as the Run Game Coordinator and Tight Ends Coach. Filling out roles previously filled by Jeff Stoutland and Jason Michael.
Mahaffey was previously in Green Bay with Mannion as the wide receivers coach and Assistant offensive line coach.
So far the Eagles new hires are proving that Mannion will get to bring in his own staff. But pushing out tenured coaches like Jeff Stoutland who helped develop elite players from Jason Kelce and Lane Johnson, to turning a rugby player into an All-Pro in Jordan Mailata.
There’s also no current answer whether the team will retain Scot Loeffler who might have been the mastermind behind getting Dallas Goedert 11 touchdowns in 2025. While it seems coaches like Aaron Moorehead who has hung onto his job as wide receiver coach for the last 6 years as the Eagles have struggled to develop a single receiver outside of DeVonta Smith. Who, let’s be real. Wasn’t turned into the player he is today from the help of Moorehead.
There’s still a long offseason to go with plenty of roster and coaching changes along the way. Who’s on your list for the Eagles next move?
Maybe it should’ve been a bigger warning signal when the Eagles opened the season with a left guard just two weeks removed from his second knee surgery since the Super Bowl, a center coming off back surgery shortly after the Super Bowl, a new right guard and a general manager who traded draft picks around the roster cutdown date to shore up depth up front.
The Eagles’ offensive line has been an elite group for the better part of the last decade and rightly earned much of the credit for Saquon Barkley’s 2,000-yard rushing season last year. But there’s no question that the big fellas up front, for a variety of reasons, just haven’t opened the same holes for Barkley through four weeks.
That’s not to say Barkley and the offense are doomed. Pass protection has been fairly good and logic would dictate that LG Landon Dickerson and C Cam Jurgens will continue to improve physically as the weeks go by and the distance grows between their surgeries, and that RT Lane Johnson won’t be leaving every game with an injury like he’s done the past two weeks.
The Eagles could very well be just one or two blocks away from clearing a path for Barkley’s first explosive run of the season. Offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo thinks they are.
“I know a lot of the guys have talked about it, too. We’ve been so close on so many runs,” Patullo said Tuesday, “and I still think we’re still trying to feel our way out as far as who we are each game. The guys are so good on game day about communication with me. Saquon has been unbelievable, and I know they’re wanting it to happen so badly, but at the same time, you don’t want to force it.”
But through the first four weeks, the line hasn’t met its typically high standard, and it’s shown every time Barkley has been stuffed at or behind the line of scrimmage.
Take a look at the difference in Barkley’s average yards before contact in 2025 compared to 2024, and where he ranks among NFL RBs (via pro-football-reference):
YBC AVG
YBC Total
2025
1.7 (38th)
129 (18th)
2024
3.8 (1st)
1,328 (1st)
There’s a school of thought that touching the ball close to 400 times in a season – as Barkley did last year – adds too much mileage to a running back and wears him down.
But there’s far more film evidence that the offensive line, especially the interior, is the bigger culprit in Barkley’s inability to find running room than any attrition of speed or athleticism.
Against the Buccaneers, 6 of Barkley’s 19 carries went for negative yardage – almost 33 percent. Six more went for 3 yards or less, so Barkley – who averaged 5.8 yards per carry last year – failed to gain 3 yards on 12 of 19 carries, or 63 percent.
Unfortunately for the Eagles, there’s no one culprit. That would be an easier fix.
And although the Bucs employed a heavy box (eight or more defenders) at a higher rate than Eagles opponents so far this season, the Eagles still faced light boxes on more than 53 percent of their snaps, per Next Gen Stats.
Here’s an example of the Eagles trying to run into a heavy box. It didn’t go well.
They probably should’ve changed the play presnap because the blocking design put the Eagles at a mathematical disadvantage, with just seven on the line against eight Bucs defenders on this split flow run. The RT/TE double team on Bucs EDGE Yaya Diaby (0) left four to block five, allowing LB SirVocea Dennis a free ride through the “A” gap.
But there was also plenty of evidence of linemen not getting the job done, like this next one.
RG Tyler Steen imploded this run when he whiffed altogether on massive DT Elijah Simmons (92), who got inside penetration so quickly that even FB Cam Latu (36) couldn’t rescue Barkley from getting pummeled.
It does appear that sometimes the Eagles are really close to springing Barkley for a long run. This next one could’ve been one, as almost everyone was blocked. Key word: almost.
Dickerson’s pull to the right side didn’t work out, as Bucs LB Lavonte David (54) – he’s pretty good – outflanked Dickerson and lunged at Barkley’s feet, causing Barkley to lose his balance, or else Barkley might’ve been able to jet upfield behind an actually decent block by Grant Calcaterra (81) on S Tykee Smith.
On the subject of losing balance …
Yikes. A big cutback hole opened on the left side of this outside zone but Barkley lost his footing while jump-cutting. What could have been…
Even the great Jordan Mailata can be imperfect at times, as his miss on this run caused Barkley to get dropped behind the line.
With the Eagles executing double teams on two of three Bucs iDLs, Mailata appeared to be responsible for single-blocking massive DT Elijah Roberts but got toasted by Roberts’ swim move, giving Roberts a clear path to swallow up Barkley for another loss.
Safe to say renowned offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland has some work to do before Sunday’s game against the Broncos.
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The Eagles have returned to the training camp, after the 2024 Super Bowl win, with one goal in mind: to prove that they are ready to repeat their success and that it was no accident.
A training camp is a proving ground for both rookie and veteran players, and experts have their eyes set on it.
Some of the best crypto sports betting sites have already come up with the odds for the Eagles to keep their title.
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Standout Players
Here’s a list of players who have already managed to stand out during the training camp and in the previous season, laying the groundwork for the team in the upcoming season.
Saquon Barkley’s Red-Zone Dominance
One of the biggest storylines so far was about how Saquon Barkley has been used in the training camp. He’s a veteran running back, and he has played a key role in the red-zone drills. In that time, he managed to run the end zone multiple times and to show a vision on the field that made him stand out.
Tyler Steen Solidifying Right Guard
Tyler Steen has emerged as the top player for the spot of right guard. The offensive line is in need of a boost, and this is one of the players who can provide it.
This is accomplished through footwork, strength, and consistency when it comes to pass protection.
Moro Ojomo’s Rise at Defensive Tackle
On the defensive side of things, second-year tackle Moro Ojomo definitely made a name for himself, at least among the experts following the training camp for the Eagles. His quick first step and the ability to disrupt plays are the basics of a good defense strategy. The team needs more depth in the defensive line, and Moro Ojomo could be a part of it.
Dorian Thompson-Robinson Winning QB3 Battle
There’s a quiet battle going on for the QB3 spot between Dorian Thompson-Robinson (DTR) and rookie Kyle McCord.
At this point, DTR seems to be winning it, mostly through his speed, accuracy, and familiarity with the NFL, which the young player can’t have.
Darius Cooper’s Big Break
PHOTO: Philadelphia Eagles/Facebook
Darius Cooper is a rookie who has made more of a splash than any other. His preseason opener featured six catches for 82 yards and a touchdown, which has earned him a reputation early on. Rookie players are usually fighting for a spot on the roster, and the best way to do it is to make a performance like that.
A.J. Dillon’s Physical Presence
Backup running back A.J. Dillon also stood out during the preseason. The main way he did it was by showcasing his amazing physical presence. He proved able to wear down the opponent’s defense.
When his skills are combined with those of Barkley, who’s much faster on his feet, the two make for a one-two punch that most teams wouldn’t have an answer to.
Jakorian Bennett Fitting In Fast
Jakorian Bennett, a cornerback who just recently joined the team, has integrated into it rather quickly. At this point, he’s competing for the spot in the rotation, and if his speed and ball skills remain as they are now, he will get it.
Setbacks and Injuries
The camp wasn’t without a few setbacks, as well. Several key players have been limited or sidelined, including star receivers A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith (back tightness), linebacker Zack Baun (back), wideout Elijah Cooks (shoulder), edge rusher Nolan Smith (concussion), and guard Kenyon Green.
None of the injuries the players are facing will have a long-term effect, but they are also interrupting the continuity, and this is noticeable in the passing game most of all. The shuffle has also given fringe players a chance to shine. That’s often the best way to have underdog players come out to the spotlight and find their place on the team.
Surprises Shaking Up the Roster Picture
The biggest and most pleasant surprise of the camp is the linebacker Jihaad Campbell. His instincts have been top-notch both in individual and team periods and have been praised by the defensive coaches.
Behind the top trio of Brown, Smith, and Jahan Dotson, the fight for the number four and five spots has been heating up. Elijah Cooks has had a presence in the drills, but Cooper’s players are impossible to ignore, as well. In the end, the Eagles could end up with a deep defensive roster, regardless of who makes the team, and they’ll be able to use that fact later on.
To Sum Up
Training camp 2025 has caused a lot of buzz among fans and experts. Some of the established stars have delivered what was expected of them, and some rookies have surprised everyone with an amazing performance.
New faces such as Darius Cooper and Moro Ojomo will definitely make their mark on the team.
As the preseason unfolds, the players will have the opportunity to showcase their skills, and they’ll earn a spot on the roster or remain on the bench until they prove themselves.
Eagles will try to keep their title, and it will be a challenge.
With teams needing to trim down rosters by nearly 40 spots in the next 5 days. Roster moves are inevitable, and the Eagles kicked things off with two roster changes, releasing CJ Uzomah, and signing Jason Poe. A necessity to bolster the OL with concern over Tyler Steen’s injury.
Like most teams, we might not see the Eagles starters in this weekends final preseason game. Giving an indication of most of the 53-man roster, days before the deadline.
However with injury reports already growing, there was a position of concern.
What would happen to the Eagles offense if they were to lose DeVonta Smith or A.J Brown at any point of the season?
Thursdays Trade
The Eagles kicked Thursday morning off with a trade announcement. And one that’s hard to complain about.
We have agreed to terms on a trade with Washington Commanders for WR Jahan Dotson and a fifth-round pick in the 2025 draft in exchange for a third-round pick and two seventh-rounds picks from the 2025 draft. pic.twitter.com/slf7qTD0An
Trading a 3rd and two 7th round picks to add what will likely be the teams WR3, and to gain a third 5th round pick for next years draft is excellent work from the Eagles front office. Leaving a 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th also available for the upcoming trade deadline on November 5th.
With the trade for Dotson, the Eagles WR depth should seemingly be in place. With AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith being the WR1&2, pushing for another season with matching 1000+ receiving yards, while Dotson & Campbell should be the WR3/4.
Some may have been hoping for Johnny Wilson to crack the roster, but it just didn’t make sense in the wake of a serious injury to one of the starters, the Eagles required depth – and forcing a 6th round pick into a large role could end the same way Quez Watkins tenure did.
This way, even the Eagles WR3/4 will have had previous 500+ yard seasons, and look to expand their roles in Kellen Moore’s offense.
Dotson’s Time As a Commander
In 2 years with the Commanders, Dotson put up the following stat lines:
2022 – 35REC on 61TGT, 523Yards, 7TD, 12GP
2023 – 49REC on 83TGT, 518Yards, 4TD, 17GP
Both years Dotson finished 3rd in Receiving yards on the Commanders, behind Curtis Samuel and Terry McLaurin.
Something else to note for the Commanders performances was the inconsistency in QB play. A team that Dotson (and others) saw Carson Wentz, Taylor Heinicke and Sam Howell all have drastic levels of play across two seasons.
With Campbell & Dotson looking to make impacts with their new team. Will either, or both of these receivers see a 500+ yard season?
After speculation that the Eagles would be paying their WR2 next after agreeing to a 3-year $66M extension with Jordan Mailata just two weeks ago. News finally broke on Monday that not only would DeVonta Smith’s 5th year be picked up, but it also came with a nifty 3-year extension.
The Eagles will now have the following players on the offense under contract through 2026:
QB Jalen Hurts
QB Kenny Pickett
WR A.J. Brown
WR DeVonta Smith
RB Saquon Barkley
LT Jordan Mailata
LG Landon Dickerson
OL Tyler Steen
RT Lane Johnson
Not a bad thing to have 8 offensive starters under contract for the next 3 seasons!
But how did the Eagles get all these top tier players under contract without being well over the cap? (like the Saints have been for years)
Ahead Of The League
This is now back to back off-seasons where Howie Roseman and co. have been able to extend franchise cornerstone players before the other 31 teams in the league came to terms with their counterparts.
QB Frenzy
Starting with Jalen Hurts on April 17th 2023. A 5 year, $255M contract was signed ahead of the following quarterbacks
Joe Burrow – 5 years, $275M signed on September 7th 2023
Justin Herbert – 5 years, $262.5M signed on July 25th 2023
Lamar Jackson – 5 years, $260M signed on April 27th 2023
Offensive Line Mania
Not only did the Eagles get away with drafting Jordan Mailata in the 7th round of the 2018 draft. They’ve now extended him. Twice! While doing so, the Eagles have gotten ahead by signing Mailata to a 3 year, $66M deal. Now under contract until 2029.
There weren’t many Offensive Tackles looking to be signed this off-season, but getting an extra 3 years from Mailata at $22M was perfect value giving some previously signed OT’s including:
Laremy Tunsil – 3 year, $75M signed on March 19th 2023
Andrew Thomas – 5 year, $117.5M signed on July 26th 2023
However, this was the perfect market to get the Left Tackle signed for those extra years. Because the following will be due for a 5th year option and probable extensions in the next year.
Penei Sewell – drafted 7th overall 2021
Rashawn Slater – drafted 11th overall 2021
Ronnie Stanley – 5 year, $98.75M signed in 2020
Setting The WR Market
And that’s exactly how the Eagles have set the WR market with DeVonta Smith’s new deal.
Had the Eagles not worked as quickly as possible on this deal. They would’ve been at risk of the following Receivers potentially getting record breaking deals done first.
Since we don’t have contract money for these other receivers, let’s keep it simple and compare Yards/TDs.
DeVonta Smith – 50GP, 3,178 Rec Yards, 19 TD. signed a 3 year, $75M deal.
Justin Jefferson – 60GP, 5,899 Rec Yards, 30 TD. On a 5th year option for $19.74M
Ja’Marr Chase – 45GP, 3,717 Rec Yards, 29 TD.
Tee Higgins – 53GP, 3,684 Rec Yards, 24TD. On a $21.8M Franchise Tag
CeeDee Lamb – 61GP, 5,145 Rec Yards, 32TD. On a 5th year option for $17.99M
With DeVonta Smith’s extension checked off the offseason to-do list. The next big milestone will be the draft. Just one week away.
After signing 13 players over the last few weeks the Eagles have found the solution to most of their 20 free agents this off-season.
Spotrac has the Eagles at a projected $10.5M in cap space, so they might be done spending as they’ll still have to sign all their rookies following the draft. If they’re looking to open up more cap space, the Eagles have yet to make any decisions on Josh Sweat or Haason Reddick.
Even after their shopping spree on the open market. The Eagles still have 8 picks in the upcoming draft, including 3 in the first 2 rounds.
The Eagles have already traded #98 and two 2025 5th round picks for Kenny Pickett and #120. Moving down 22 spots and acquiring a QB with term.
And for a team that’s always active during the draft. Don’t expect them to be quiet.
Previous Draft Trades
Below are the past 3 years of Draft Pick trades the Eagles have made
2023 Draft
Eagles trade 10th pick and a 2024 4th to the Bears in exchange for 9th overall (Jalen Carter)
Eagles trade 62nd pick to the Texans in exchange for picks #65(Tyler Steen), #188(Tanner McKee) and #230
Eagles trade a 2024 3rd to the Texans in exchange for #105 (Kelee Ringo)
Eagles trade a 2025 4th to the Lions for D’Andre Swift and #249
Eagles trade #230 and #248 to the Texans for #191
Eagles trade #191 to Tampa Bay for a 2024 5th
2022 Draft
(Pre-Draft) Eagles traded #16, #19 and #194 to New Orleans for #18, #101, #237, a 2023 1st and 2024 2nd
Eagles trade #15, #124, #162 and #166 to the Texans for #13 (Jordan Davis)
Eagles trade #18 and #101 to the Titans for A.J. Brown
Eagles trade #154 to Jacksonville for #188 and #198
Eagles trade #188 and #237 to Detroit for #181
2021 Draft
(Pre-Draft) Eagles trade Carson Wentz for #84 and 2022 #16
(Pre-Draft) Eagles trade #6 and #156 to Miami for #12 and a 2022 1st
Eagles trade #12 and #84 to Dallas for #10 (DeVonta Smith)
Eagles trade #70 to Carolina for #73(Milton Williams) and #191(Tarron Jackson)
Eagles trade #225 and #240 to Washington for a 2022 5th
Time and time again the Eagles have shown to be very active in the draft. Loading up on future picks and trading up to acquire the guys they want.
It’ll be no surprise by the end of April if the Eagles have traded more of their picks. Whether it’s to acquire players or future picks we’ll have to wait to find out.
The 2024 offseason is now underway for the Philadelphia Eagles, with the bulk of free agents already gone. With the upcoming draft, they have some choices to make on how to fix their roster.
What are the Eagles’ current strengths? What are their weaknesses?
Strength: Offensive Line
Yes, even with Jason Kelce’s expected yet still gut-wrenching retirement, the Eagles are still strong at their offensive line. It shows how spoiled they’ve been for a long, long time.
Photo: Eagles Nation on X.
Sure, the Eagles’ interior offensive line took a big hit with the loss of Kelce, but it will serve as a chance for someone like former 2023 third-round pick Tyler Steen to emerge. He only played 71 snaps last season, so he’s due for an increase in that department. The Eagles have done a fantastic job acquiring and developing offensive linemen over the past couple of decades — the hope is that he can be the next.
The Eagles know what they have in Landon Dickerson, as he is a two-time Pro Bowler with just three seasons under his belt in the NFL. Getting him was a fantastic snag for the Eagles back in the 2021 NFL draft early in the second round. At 25 years of age, he should be the anchor of the interior offensive line for years to come — especially with his new four-year deal.
As for Cam Jurgens, he is the likely Kelce replacement at center after playing a lot of guard for the Birds last season (89%, to be exact). He’s still just 24 and played decent last season, so his progression will be something to monitor.
As for the rest of the offensive line, the Eagles know what they’re getting in tackles Jordan Mailata and Lane Johnson at this point. Arguably the best tackle duo in football, the offensive line will still be a strong point for Philadelphia, if not their strongest. If they can stay healthy, there shouldn’t be much to worry about with this unit.
Weakness: Defensive Backs
Looking at the Eagles’ first major weakness, the defensive backs took a significant step back from 2022 to 2023. They lost Avonte Maddox this offseason, who didn’t have the best 2023 campaign, but it’s still a loss nonetheless. James Bradberry’s regression has been apparent, and he still has two seasons left on his $38 million contract that he signed last offseason.
Before free agency, the only positives in the secondary were arguably only Darius Slay and Reed Blankenship. Even Slay took a small step back in 2023, so it was (and still is) a worrying aspect of the team.
But the Eagles went out and signed safety Chauncey Gardner-Johnson to a three-year deal, giving the Eagles their 2022 swagger back and some good coverage at that. The secondary still needs major work, but the importance of that addition cannot be understated.
Strength: Offensive Skill Positions
One thing that hasn’t always been great for the Eagles has been their skill positions. Now, however, it is one of the best features of their roster. The duo of A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith at wide receiver is can’t-miss good. Both of them will be eyeing Mike Quick’s record from 1983 to 1985 where he notched three straight 1,000-yard receiving seasons — they each have two in a row.
More recently, star running back Saquon Barkley agreed to terms with the Eagles. He is the only back in the NFL who recorded top-10 rushing yards over expected (RYOE) campaigns in both 2022 and 2023. He had dozens of big rushing plays (10 or more yards) for the New York Giants on a brutal offensive line, so he’ll help bring some explosiveness to Philadelphia. Even if he’s 27, he’s still one of the best at his position.
At this point, Jalen Hurts doesn’t need to be discussed. Even at his worst, which was arguably last season, he was still a phenomenal quarterback. He will only continue to get better.
Whether or not a tight end is considered to be a skill position or not, Dallas Goedert makes a good case for it. He’s not just a standard tight end — he can block, catch, and make plays. He is a vital player in the Eagles’ offense.
Weakness: Linebackers
It’s been the case for a while now, but the Eagles’ linebackers are not up to par. It’s been a while since that has been a strength, really. It’s both good and bad news that Nicholas Morrow, Zach Cunningham, and Shaquille Leonard are all likely on the way out. They had some good performances in there, but it was overall pretty disappointing.
The Eagles’ defense needs to improve next season, obviously. Things went smoothly early on, but some bad games against the Washington Commanders of all teams suggest they need more. By the end of the season, surrendering 30 or more points came with regularity. The linebackers definitely played into that, and there will be some big changes. If there was a position that the Eagles go heavy on in the draft and what’s left of free agency, that’ll be it.
In free agency, the Eagles added linebackers Oren Burks and Zack Baun to the room, but those are more or less depth adds. The addition of Devin White was a high-reward move, but it doesn’t take away from the Eagles’ issues. With the addition of Johnson to the secondary, the linebacker core is probably the Eagles’ biggest weakness as of now, even with White, especially now there.
Strength: Pass Rush
Much like the offensive line, the Eagles have had a fantastic defensive line for a while. They have great youth in Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis, while Josh Sweat and Milton Williams are both relatively young, too.
Photo: —
Carter, specifically, could take a massive jump for the Eagles. He was an elite player last season, so the hope is that his sophomore season can bring even more. With a duo of him and Davis out there, the Eagles should be dangerous for years to come. But 2024 could be a massive one for both of them.
Veterans like Brandon Graham and Reddick are still important to the Eagles. Reddick was the Eagles’ sack leader, while Graham has had his game age like a fine wine. He is still a great player at age 35. He is reportedly in the works for an extension to give it one more year. At this point, he’s one of the greatest Eagles of all time — the good news is that keeping him around will actually help the team rather than serve as a sentimental move.
However, considering the fact that the Eagles signed 25-year-old defensive end Bryce Huff to a contract worth $51.1 million, among their other huge splashes, chances are that someone like Reddick could go. There’s not enough money to keep everyone, and it would be a bit irresponsible for a young team to do that. With that out of the way, the Eagles pass rush should still be an area of strength without either of them. It might take a hit, but it is a young unit with a lot of talent.
In the draft, the Eagles will have three picks in the first two rounds. That’s plenty of ammo to make some big changes.
If the Eagles want to go back to the Super Bowl, addressing their needs will be a must. They have the assets to do so adequately.
The Eagles had another grocery list of positions to fill this off-season.
Safety (or 2)
Linebackers (multiple)
Wide Receivers (multiple)
Running Back (or 2)
OL Depth
They had already made a few moves to shore up some depth and competition in the roster. See more of the previous moves like Okwara and Kinnard here.
If you had told me that the Eagles would cross off most of that list within the first week of free agency. I would assume most of the players were cheap acquisitions who might not even make the 53 man roster. But by end of day Thursday, the Eagles have started the off-season impressively.
Let’s recap the moves they’ve made since Wednesday.
The Eagles began the legal tampering period with some of the best news. And later finalized a 3-year, $37.75M deal with Saquon Barkley.
This should be the 3rd year in a row Eagles end up with a 1,000+ yard player in the backfield. From Sanders, to Swift and now Barkley, who put up 962 rushing yards in only 14 games with the Giants this past season. While the Giants had started Tyrod Taylor, Daniel Jones and Tommy DeVito for equal amounts of the season. Saquon was in a similar situation to Christian McCaffrey, and should now make as much an impact on the Eagles as McCaffrey has to the 49ers offense.
With only a $3,950,000 cap hit in 2024. Barely costing the team as they continued to spend their available cap space…
Shopping From Both Sides Of MetLife
There was one more stop the Eagles had to make while they were scooping players from MetLife Stadium.
Signing Bryce Huff to a 3-year, $51M contract is a big price to pay for a defensive end who only played 42% of the defensive snaps. Compared to Sweat at $13.3M and Reddick at $15M, who both played over 70% of the Eagles defensive snaps. But with Huff putting up 10 Sacks last year for the Jets, this signing feels similar to when they signed Haason Reddick 2 seasons ago.
So could this be a signing to replace one of the expiring Sweat or Reddick deals? Or utilizing the $30M jump in cap space to re-invest on the defensive line? We won’t know for now, but this Josh Sweat instagram comment might be a hint of what could still be to come.
Addressing The OL
Every year, there’s plenty of people online who scream into the void “The Eagles should use their Day 1 pick on an offensive lineman”
I’m here to tell you they probably won’t do that, again.
The Eagles had plenty of players depart from the Offensive Line. From Kelce’s retirement to no news on Sua Opeta or Jack Driscoll. But they’ve already gone and signed Darian Kinnard, and now Matt Hennessy.
With 20 starts in Atlanta over the last 3 years, the former Temple Owl will make his way back to Philadelphia. Having played center and left guard in Atlanta. It wouldn’t be a surprise if Hennessy is viewed as a backup piece, but can bring competition for both Cam Jurgens and Tyler Steen during training camp.
While this is only a 1 year deal, it probably keeps the Eagles from using a high round pick in the draft on the offensive line. If they’re truly building for the future they could use a 2nd or 3rd round pick, like they have in the last two drafts.
Finally, Some Linebackers!
There’s one position the Eagles desperately needed to invest in this off-season. And it took awhile for these moves to come through but they’ve made them.
Saints free-agent LB Zack Baun plans to sign a one-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles, per source.
Adding 2 linebackers in the opening week of free agency is steps ahead of the linebackers the Eagles were acquiring last year.
Nicholas Morrow was the only free agent move in March for a LB, and Zach Cunningham and Myles Jack weren’t signed until August.
Devin White, a former Pro-Bowler and All-Pro had 83 tackles last year, including 2.5 Sacks and 2 Interceptions.
While Zack Baun had 30 tackles, 2 Sacks and 1 Interception.
Many may not approve of the White deal, but with plenty of time to make final roster decisions and the draft still a month away. White and Baun are better moves than the Eagles have seen at LB in some time. (We all remember Nate Gerry, right?)
Maybe this is what was missing from the Eagles secondary in 2023.
C.J. Gardner-Johnson didn’t see plenty of playing time in Detroit, With a Week 2 injury that saw C.J. out until week 18. The reacquainted Safety still had 2 Interceptions across his 6 total games in Detroit, 3 in the regular season and 3 in the playoffs.
Some wanted Justin Simmons to fill the void in the secondary left by Byard, but after some apologies, many are on board with this addition.
The New WR3 In Town
With Quez Watkins and Olamide Zaccheaus set to be free agents, the Eagles had to bring in multiple new faces for new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore.
Eagles and former Patriots WR DeVante Parker reached agreement on a 1-year, $4.69 million fully guaranteed deal, of which Philadelphia has to pay only $1.2 million, with New England paying the rest. “DeVante is thrilled and grateful to become a Philadelphia Eagle and to help this… pic.twitter.com/LtwCnNVj58
While DeVante Parker’s separation numbers are the worst in the league. The Former Patriot still had 539 and 394 yards during his 2-year stint with Mac Jones at QB (And Matt Patricia at OC).
Not bad numbers to fill in a WR3 role that Watkins and Zaccheaus didn’t come close to last year. Sure the offense struggled under Brian Johnson, there’s still bright things to expect with new faces on this team with new coordinators and schemes being put in place this off-season.
There’s still 1 more open WR spot on the roster that could be addressed in the draft or re-signing Zaccheaus. And with the Eagles only paying $1.2M of Parker’s deal, there’s no guarantee he makes the final roster cut in August either.
The Eagles have already made plenty of moves signing new faces to the team, who are you hoping they’re still able to add before the draft?
