2024 Offseason Guide

All things regarding the 2024 Philadelphia Eagles Offseason

This guide serves as a foundation for the coaching/roster moves for the Philadelphia Eagles offseason. This guide will be updated as moves are made throughout the offseason.

OVERVIEW

The Philadelphia Eagles roster is in need of a makeover, particularly on the defensive side of the ball.  Overall, they have several positions and roles that need to be filled on offense, defense and special teams. 

The good news is that this free agent class is shaping up to be one of the better classes in recent memory.  There are a lot of names that will be added and removed from the current list as franchise tags, re-signings and cap causalities ensue over the next few months. 

This draft class is strong in some of the positions the Eagles need – corner, wide receiver, edge (top heavy) – while relatively weak at other positions of need – linebacker, running back, safety.  Keep that in mind when evaluating free agency options.

The Eagles have several long-term veterans that are on the verge of retirement, or may be on another team next year.  There are also multiple players on the roster that will have contracts expiring at the end of 2024 that need to be considered.

Most importantly, there will be coaching changes.  The Eagles are moving forward with Nick Sirianni as their head coach in 2024, but there will be new offensive and defensive coordinators. They will bring some of their own guys to the coaching staff as well.

The front office often works to bring players in to fit the vision of the coaching staff.  Much of the pro and college scouting/player profile work will be determined on the player types that potential new coaches prefer.

Table of Contents

Click link to jump to section. 
*Any hyperlink leads to a more in-depth article about the subject*
*All stats via Sports Info Solutions unless otherwise stated*
*All contract projections via Spotrac unless otherwise stated*

COACHING

The Eagles entered the offseason with a fog of uncertainty around the coaching staff. Many people, myself included, felt it was time to move on from Nick Sirianni. I can’t speak for anyone else, but my view was that the Eagles offense had become stagnant and rigid in scheme and philosophy, and they hadn’t been able to find answers for the blitz in the three season Sirianni commanded the offense. Due to how adamant that Nick has been over the years that this is his offense, I was skeptical that he would be open to giving up control of the unit.

But following the end of season press conference held by Sirianni and GM Howie Roseman, Nick has clearly taken a different stance. He appears to be evolving into more of a CEO type coach for the Eagles, similar to Belichick, John Harbaugh, Mike Tomlin and Dan Campbell. That has me much more excited about the future of the team.

Nick talked about how the offense had grown stale and that the offense needed fresh ideas. He discussed that he was looking forward to bringing in someone new, as their offensive staff has been comprised of mostly the same coaches for the past three seasons (and longer than that as many came from Indianapolis when Sirianni was hired).

There has been a talking point about offensive coordinator turnover recently. Every offensive coordinator hired since 2021 is now on a new team. Many people think a head coach needs to be a play caller to make sure that doesn’t keep happening. The benefit of having a CEO coach is that they get to add new, up and coming coaches with fresh ideas every few years. They can take and implement ideas from those coaches and evolve over time (more on that in the Vic Fangio section).

For the second year in a row, the Eagles will be implementing new offensive and defensive coordinators.  Unlike last year, these spots came open due subpar performance that led to the release of both coordinators.

The Eagles rolled with two relatively inexperienced coordinators in 2023.  Offensive coordinator Brian Johnson had four seasons of experience as a coordinator in college, but none in the NFL.  Defensive coordinator Sean Desai had one season of experience as a coordinator at any level, in 2021 with the Bears.

Due to that inexperience from both coordinators, I feel that the Eagles are going to try to hire more established coaches. That appears to be the case as they hired Vic Fangio to fill the defensive coordinator spot.

Offensively, it’s still to be determined which route they go. I don’t think requiring the OC to have years and years of experience as a play caller is necessarily the right approach to finding a coordinator, but the Pendulum Effect is very real and affects us all whether we know it or not.

Fans are clamoring for experienced coaches, but Andy Reid was never a coordinator or play caller in his career before the Eagles tabbed him for the head coaching position in 1999.  He was also the second youngest coach in the league at that time.

People are begging for someone from the Shanahan/McVay tree, but forget that McVay was 27 years old when he became an offensive coordinator.  Three seasons later and he was the head coach for the Rams at just 30 years old. 

I don’t want the Eagles to miss out on a potential superstar coach because of hard and fast rules that people want to adhere to just because things didn’t work out last time.  There’s no one size fits all when it comes to leading any kind of organization – football included.

Vic Fangio Hire

I had an entire article written out about defensive coordinator candidates, but the day before releasing this guide, it was announced the Vic Fangio was departing Miami. The next day it was reported that he was flying to Philadelphia to sign with the Eagles.

I’m not going to go into a full breakdown on Fangio and his scheme here, but I will link a few resources for people to read.

While the Eagles have employed two coordinators that run the Fangio scheme to some degree recently (even though Jonathan Gannon didn’t have any connections to Fangio prior to 2022), they differed in their approach in some areas. Check out this video to see how Fangio is much more aggressive than most believe.

In addition to that, at it’s core, coaching is nothing more than teaching. And Vic Fangio has proven to be one of the better teachers in the NFL.

A lot of people will tell you that the Fangio Scheme has been figured out in the NFL. The truth is, a lot of the stuff that Fangio does is stuff that has proliferated around the rest of the NFL with teams not running the Fangio system.

Take a look at the coverage rates for the Ravens. Mike McDonald (hottest defensive head coach candidate) isn’t a Fangio disciple but his coverage charts are similar to Fangio’s. Look back at the chart from the tweet I had. The Ravens blitz and simulated pressure rates are similar to Fangio’s team in Miami. The team that the Dolphins were tied with in Cover 0 rate? You guessed it, the Ravens. Remember when I talked about CEO coaches taking ideas from the coaches they’ve had on the staff over the years? Vic Fangio coached under Ravens head coach John Harbaugh for two seasons.

The Jets, Texans and 49ers (from the Saleh tree) have all implemented a significant amount of coverages that fans would determine as “soft coverage” (Quarters coverage).

The term “system” gets overrated. The Belichick system was great because Belichick taught it. Teams tried to copy Bill Walsh’s West Coast offense with the 49ers, but couldn’t replicate his success. It’s the teacher that matters more than the scheme. And ultimately the players that matter more than the coaches (Raven’s defensive numbers not nearly as good without Roquan Smith and Kyle Hamilton).

Extended reading on Fangio’s scheme:

Kellen Moore Hire

Check out this article for a more in depth breakdown of Kellen Moore’s history. Also watch my film review to see how he will make life easier for the Eagles offense.

The Eagles have officially hired from Dallas Cowboys and Los Angeles Chargers offensive coordinator Kellen Moore to be their lead their offense in 2024. He was one of the top candidates available this cycle, and though he is just 35, he has a strong resume with an offense that checks a lot of boxes:

  • Five seasons as a play caller.
  • Offenses ranked first in points and yards per game combined in the three years that Dak Prescott was healthy (2019, 2021, 2022).
  • Total motion rate ranked sixth in the NFL, eighth in motion at the snap.
  • Uses a lot of bunch and stack formations to give his receivers easier releases.
  • While he does like to pass the ball, the Cowboys were sixth in total rush attempts in the NFL from 2019-2022.
  • Extremely efficient in the red zone and on third downs. His offenses ranked third in both categories in the three seasons that Dak Prescott was healthy.

Moore’s experience calling plays and designing an offense that was one of the best in the NFL for several years is something that should really excite fans. Oh, and he has answers when defenses decide to send the house. This hire has me fired up for the 2024 season.

2025 CAP SPACE/DEAD CAP CONCERNS

The Eagles 2025 cap situation is sure to play a factor in how the team approaches the 2024 offseason.  Check out this article for a more in-depth breakdown of the situation.

In short, the Eagles could potentially have just under $60M in dead cap hits in 2025 from six players (Jason Kelce, Fletcher Cox, Brandon Graham, Haason Reddick, Josh Sweat, Avonte Maddox).  That number could grow (or shrink) depending on several factors, but keep that in mind when thinking about who the Eagles cut (or trade) and when. 

For example, everyone wants James Bradberry cut, but cutting him this year with a post 6/1 designation frees up virtually nothing for 2024 ($150,000) while adding an extra $12.5M in dead cap charges on top of the $60M in dead cap the Eagles already might have in 2025.

If he was cut with a post 6/1 designation in 2025, the Eagles would free up $4.7M in 2025.  That’s a $17.2M swing in cap space!  He would then have a dead cap hit of $9M in 2026.  With the way Howie Roseman structures contracts, he needs that 2025 cap space to be aggressive in free agency this year.

This situation is fluid though, as those 2025 dead cap charges can change if Fletch and/or BG come back and one of Reddick or Sweat is re-signed. 

What’s important to keep in mind is this, post 6/1 cuts aren’t helping the Eagles this offseason and have a great potential to hurt the team in 2025.  That’s why we might see some pre 6/1 cuts to guys like Maddox or even a blockbuster trade with a prized pass rusher. 

Time will tell, but we can’t talk about the 2024 offseason without factoring in the Eagles situation in 2025.

EAGLES FREE AGENTS

The Eagles have a good number of free agents this offseason, though only a few of their free agents are worth keeping.  Most will be gone this offseason and replaced by someone else.

Jason Kelce

I believe he is going to retire, but at the moment he still hasn’t.  If he doesn’t retire, he would need to sign another contract.  If Kelce were to retire, he would have a big cap hit this year and next year.  If he came back this year, that would help spread out those cap hits, though he would still have a dead money hit in 2026.

Fletcher Cox

Due to his dead money set for 2025, his contract situation deserves a deeper dive.

  • In short, I think the Eagles look to bring in another DT, likely a short-term deal.  They need an interior defender that can rush the passer with some consistency outside of Jalen Carter.
    • If the Eagles opt for an older DT similar to Cox, it makes more sense cap wise to bring back Fletch instead.  The decision is likely up to Fletch.
Brandon Graham

Similar to Fletch, it would make more sense contract wise to bring back BG vs an older free agent.

  • BG wants to come back and I would be for it, depending on contract and role.  He actually had the highest-pressure rate (via SIS) of all of the edge rushers in 2023.  The Eagles need to find an impact edge rusher long term though.

His dead cap hits aren’t as big as Fletcher’s though, so it would be easier to eat his dead cap hit and move on.

D’Andre Swift

Contract/league/draft prospect situation deserves a deeper dive to determine if it’s worth bringing back Swift.  I would keep him if he goes for a league average contract.  Easy to argue that he was underutilized in some regards last season despite a career high in rushing yards and touches.  Could outperform his contract.

  • This RB draft class in 2024 isn’t particularly ripe with top end talent.  Replacing Swift might not be as easy as replacing Miles Sanders was last year.
Sua Opeta/Jack Driscoll

If the Eagles don’t bring back one of these guys, they are going to be very thin in the OL group.  They’d probably have to hit the free agent market anyway.  Philadelphia will need to find a starting interior OL if Kelce retires, on top of needing depth.  More on this in the Positions of Need section.  Neither of these guys are who you want to start consistently, but they will provide depth for the team.

  • I would keep Opeta.  He struggled against the Jets, but overall, he was solid for a rotational guard.  Better than Tyler Steen currently, but that could change with another year in the pros for Steen.
Jack Stoll

The Eagles have two tight ends on the roster next season, Dallas Goedert and Grant Calcaterra.  Depending on the contract, how much money gets allocated to bigger needs, and free agency, I would bring Stoll back.

  • Solid contributor as a blocking tight end compared to Calcaterra.
Marcus Mariota

He had a bad training camp, but he admitted he wasn’t even sure if he wanted to play to start the season.  He came around during the year and showed why he’s still a valuable backup in the NFL during Week 18.  He outscored the Eagles starters despite playing with backups against the Giants starters.

  • Tanner McKee stood out against a lot of players that ended up on practice squads or the streets, but I’m not entirely sold that he’s ready to become a backup QB.  That’s up to the Eagles staff/front office.  If he’s not, I’d consider bringing back Mariota, though there will be some solid back up QB options in free agency if the Eagles want to spend up there.
Boston Scott

At this point in his career, I don’t think Scott is offering much to the team outside of special teams and some receiving ability.  The Eagles have one RB on the roster currently (Kenny Gainwell), so I wouldn’t be opposed to bringing Scott back as third/fourth back on a cheap deal.  Those end of roster backs often end up being players that you trust to do their job, filling in when absolutely needed.  Scott can do that.

Braden Mann

The Eagles don’t have a punter on the roster in 2024.  Mann was a great addition for the Eagles in 2023. 

  • He was 7th in yards per punt, 4th in net yards per punt and 2nd in touchback %.  I’d expect Mann to be back.  Jake Elliott followed a similar path to the Eagles roster long term.

The rest of these players are free agents as well, but they will likely be gone and don’t need to take up space with explanations:

  • Zach Cunningham, Justin Evans, Shaquille Leonard, Rashaad penny, Olamide Zaccheaus, Nicholas Morrow, Albert Okwuegbunam, Shaun Bradley, Quez Watkins

RE-SIGN/RESTRUCTURE/TRADE/CUT CANDIDATES

There are several players that are on the roster for 2024 that are candidates to be cut, restructured, extended or traded.  This is perhaps the most intriguing part of the offseason as there are a couple surprise moves that could really change the shape of this roster.

Cut Candidates

Kevin Byard

Saves $13.5M in cap space.  No-brainer deal as he’s no longer an All-Pro caliber player who is worthy of a $14M/year contract. I thought he actually played well for the most part with the Eagles, but that was overlooked by all of their other issues. Regardless, a $14M cap hit is going to get him cut.

  • Safety is very deep in the free agent class and the Eagles can find a player in the $6M AAV range or go for a high-priced splash signing.  Check out the positions of need section.
Avonte Maddox

I did a deeper dive of Maddox’s contract that you can check out.  Since that article, I’ve rethought my stance.  I think cutting him before 6/1 makes a lot of sense for the future of this team, especially when you factor in the 2025 dead cap hits we’ve already talked about.

  • A pre-6/1 release relieves the Eagles of any dead cap money on Maddox’s contract in 2025.  It also saves the Eagles $1.96M in cap space in 2024.
  • A post-6/1 release gives the Eagles $7.1M in cap space this year, but they’ll have a dead cap hit of $5.16M next season.  Considering the Eagles backload all of their contracts, and space needed for extensions/signings hitting in 2025 (due to dead cap hits), saving space this year isn’t as important as next year.
  • Need a plan for the slot post-Maddox if going this route (potentially Isaiah Rodgers? A draft pick if the board falls right?).
James Bradberry

This contract needs a more in-depth conversation.  I can understand not wanting to have him on the roster based on how bad his play was.  However, it is better for the team cap space wise NEXT year if he isn’t cut until post-6/1 next offseason.

Fred Johnson

I know you’re excited to talk Fred Johnson.  Cutting Johnson, a reserve offensive linemen, will save about $1.1M in cap space. 

He doesn’t cost much against the cap, but he can help open some space.  I think if Johnson gets cut it will be a result of losing a spot during training camp.  Considering the Eagles offensive line is already thin, I don’t think he will be cut during March.  We’ll see how the roster shapes up first though.

Wild Cards

Two players have contracts that are expiring after the 2024 season that I would consider wild cards for how the offseason pans out.  Either could let their contract play out, have their contract extended or be moved in a trade.  Those players are Haason Reddick and Josh Sweat. 

I expect one to get a contract extension and with the other playing out their contract or involved in a traded.  I also think a big part of that equation is how free agency plays out.  There are intriguing options at edge rusher.  I’ll detail both players here a bit, but really, they both need to be looked at more closely. 

Haason Reddick

He is in the last year of contract, has a cap hit of $21.377M

  • Could clear a lot of cap space this season if they restructured.  Wouldn’t make sense unless they re-sign him, otherwise that money they clear this season would be added to his already large dead cap hit in 2025.
  • Would have a dead cap hit between $13.5-14.7M in 2025 if deal plays out as is.
    • Trading him post-6/1 opens up $15.9M in cap space THIS season but still have the large dead cap hit next season.  Post 6/1 trade doesn’t make sense to me; 2024 cap isn’t an issue.
  • Reddick has hinted that he wants a bigger contract.  He will be entering his age 30 season.
    • If he wants a contract in line with Nick Bosa, T.J. Watt or Myles Garrett, I would not re-sign ($25-34M AAV).
    • If he wants one in line with Trey Hendrickson then I would discuss ($21M AAV), but would seriously consider making a move for one of the young free agent edge rushers instead (projected $15-17M AAV).
      • Could then keep Sweat and the new edge rusher and trade Reddick, OR keep all three and have a loaded edge group in a push for the 2024 crown.  Would have the cap hit in 2025 if the Eagles go that route.
        • Re-signing would allow them to spread out $13M dead cap next season to later seasons.
Josh Sweat

He is in a somewhat similar situation to Reddick. 

  • Last year of contract, has a cap hit of $9M but can’t restructure any like Reddick.
  • Would have a dead cap hit of about $9.5M in 2025 if deal plays out as is.
    • Would lose cap space if he was traded BEFORE 6/1. 
    • If traded AFTER 6/1, would free up roughly $4.35M in cap space this season but incur a dead cap hit of about $9.5M in 2025.
  • If he re-signs, that dead cap next year would be spread out like Reddick’s would.
    • Imagine he would get a deal around $13-15M in AAV.
    • Note, unlike with Reddick, the Eagles don’t get any cap relief from Sweat’s $9M dead cap hit next season UNLESS they re-sign him.

That was a lot of numbers I just threw at you so let me see if I can make it simpler with less numbers. 

If the Eagles don’t re-sign Reddick, who is aging, he will have a big dead cap hit in 2025.  If they re-sign him then that cap hit would be spread out, but he might be priced out of the Eagles range if he thinks he can get a deal like Nick Bosa or T.J. Watt.  Trading him pre-6/1 provides cap relief this season AND eliminates next season’s dead cap.  A post-6/1 trade doesn’t do that.

For Sweat, he will also have a fairly large dead cap hit in 2025 if he is not re-signed, though not as large as Reddick’s.  If he’s traded pre-6/1, the Eagles lose cap space this year but don’t have his dead cap in 2025.  If he’s traded post-6/1, the Eagles gain cap space this year BUT still have his large dead cap in 2025.  Trading Sweat at any point doesn’t really help with cap space in a meaningful way, but if he’s not going to be back next year then I’d like to get assets for him instead of seeing him walk and still having to pay dead money.

It’s unlikely the Eagles re-sign both in my eyes.  But I do imagine at least one gets re-signed.

I’m not saying I would trade either player, but I would only look to trade one of the players if the Eagles land a prized pass rusher in free agency.  Even then, I might let one of their deal’s play out as a pass rush trio of Reddick, Sweat and Huff/Greenard/Uche/Burns would be formidable.  This team still has a Super Bowl window with some retooling.

In addition to that, there will likely be one or two good options at edge when the Eagles pick at 22, but we won’t know that until we get there.  That’s also a good range for where the top corners in the draft are projected to go.

How the Eagles handle the contracts of Reddick and Sweat will greatly impact how this roster is constructed down the line.  A surprise move might be in store.

Re-Sign/Restructure Candidates

The Eagles have a few players entering the final year of their rookie deals that will be eligible for contract extensions this offseason.

DeVonta Smith

Undecided if the Eagles will give DeVonta a long-term extension this offseason or next.  The Eagles will likely exercise his fifth-year option this offseason, which takes effect in 2025.  They could re-sign him after exercising the option or wait until the following offseason.  I imagine the Eagles will want to lock down Smitty earlier than later.

  • The AAV on his fifth-year option is projected to be $15M.  Spotrac projects DeVonta’s AAV to be $19M/year.  I’d be willing to bet he signs for more than that.  The fifth-year option gives the Eagles an extra year of cap control.
Landon Dickerson

Landon Dickerson is heading into the last year of his rookie contract.  He has been a Pro Bowler in two of his three seasons.  He’s a core piece of this team and the Eagles will re-sign him.

  • No website is offering projections for his value yet.  Based on contracts for other guards around the NFL, he’ll probably sign a deal somewhere in the range of $15-20M/year with $40-60M in guarantees.  Of course, Howie will look to backload the deal, which will be further stretched out if he gets a third contract.
    • Based on his injury history, I wouldn’t be surprised to see some injury guarantees included, similar to Josh Sweat’s contract.
Reed Blankenship

Since he was an undrafted free agent, Reed’s contract is up after 2024.  Considering the Eagles currently have one safety on the roster signed past next season (Sydney Brown), I imagine the Eagles will look to bring Reed back.

  • If he returns, I imagine he’ll get a deal similar to what Marcus Epps did in Las Vegas.  Epps deal has an AAV of $6M.
  • If the Eagles don’t plan on bringing Reed back, then I’d expect them to makes a long-term splash move in free agency this offseason.  More on that in the Positions of Need section. 
Milton Williams

Milton Williams enters the last year of his contract as a big contributor for this defensive line.  His athletic profile, age and production to date will earn him a decent sized contract in free agency that the Eagles likely won’t be able to match.

Milton has been a better run defender than pass rusher throughout his career, and although he has incredible athletic traits, he hasn’t translated that into a consistent pass rush yet.  That could change, but unless he shows improvement in that area this season, I don’t imagine the Eagles are bringing him back. 

The Eagles will have Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter up for contracts shortly after Milt, and as a rookie, Moro Ojomo flashed a lot of the power and technique needed to be a good run defender.  This seems like a situation where Milton ends up as a cap casualty.

One last thought, I wouldn’t be surprised if the Eagles come out of the first two rounds of the draft with another defensive tackle.  They need someone next to Jalen Carter that can provide a consistent pass rush.  If that happens, I could see the Eagles trading Milton in the summer to get assets for a player that isn’t in their long-term plans.

Jake Elliott

Elliott’s on the final year of his contract as well and I expect him to not only be re-signed, but to have his contract restructured this season.  You could make an argument he is the best kicker in football currently and in Eagles history.

  • The Eagles can convert his base salary to a signing bonus and clear roughly $1.9M in cap space this offseason.
  • He will also likely receive an extension with an AAV around $7M/year.  Don’t worry, the Eagles won’t come close to paying that until the end of the contract based on the way Roseman will structure the contract.
Isaiah Rodgers

This will be Rodgers first year with the Eagles.  He played well as an outside corner in Indianapolis, but we’re still unsure what role he will play in Philadelphia.  Many project him to move inside to the slot.

I can see the Eagles bringing him back in 2025, but we’ll need to see how he plays for this organization.  He’s also an undersized player at 5’10” and 170lbs.  He’s not a scheme independent player.

Britain Covey

Covey has turned into a fan favorite this season.  He is one of the best punt returners in the NFL and an asset for the Eagles.

However, it is hard to earn a second contract as a punt returner only.  The All-Pro and Pro Bowl punt and kick returners are all contributors on either kick and punt return and/or play significant snaps on offense or defense.  If Covey is going to earn a second contract, he’s either going to have to show value as a receiver, or play on a contract that pays close to the league minimum.

Others

There are several other players with expiring contracts at the end of 2024 that I don’t think will be brought back, unless they’re being kept for depth/special teams reasons.

  • Kenny Gainwell, Marlon Tuipulotu, Fred Johnson, Patrick Johnson, Ben VanSumeren, Zech McPhearson, Josh Jobe

POSITIONS OF NEED

The Eagles enter the 2024 offseason needing a makeover on defense with some holes filled on offense.  I’ve ordered the positions of need without factoring in positional value.  They are ordered purely based on need for starters to fill those positions.

For instance, the Eagles need one, potentially two starting linebackers for next season.  I have them first for position of need.  However, that doesn’t mean I would pick a LB in the first round or spend the most money in free agency on LB. 

We don’t need to add any edge rushers to this team, but thinking long term while also factoring in positional value, I would still prioritize going after edge rushers with more resources than linebackers.  We DON’T NEED to find an edge in free agency or the draft, but is something that we SHOULD try to find.  We NEED to find starting linebackers because we have maybe one on the roster.

*All contract valuations are via Spotrac unless stated otherwise.

Linebacker

The Eagles linebacker group was the single worst position group on the team last year.  They were a large factor in the defenses decline. 

The Eagles need to prioritize the position a little more.  I’m not saying spend first round picks or $15M in free agency on one, but spend a little more on proven commodities or extra picks in the mid rounds on the position.

Linebacker isn’t the strongest position group in this free agency class, but there are several options that should fall in line with what the Eagles are looking for contract wise.

Splash Signing

I could put Patrick Queen here, an All-Pro LB that will be 25 this season.  But his contract is estimated to be around 5 years for $92.6M ($18.5M AAV).  Howie will never entertain that idea.

Instead, I’ll go with Jordyn Brooks.  He is projected to garner a contract in the $11-13M range.  I’m not sure if it will get that high, but the former first round pick is still just 26.  I don’t think the Eagles will pay that much, but it would be splash signing.

Value Signing

My initial thought is to put Blake Cashman here as he had an outstanding season.  But he’s dealt with several injuries in his career and his breakout year came under Demeco Ryans.  Will that continue without playing for Demeco?  I don’t think the Eagles want to sign another oft injured LB to pair with Nakobe Dean who has his own injury history.

I will go with Azeez Al-Shaair.  He is a good athlete that has been a solid player in San Francisco and Tennessee.  This is a team that needs an infusion of speed on the second level.  He signed a one-year deal for $5M last offseason.  I imagine he’ll garner a similar contract.

Other Players Worth Consideration
  • Jordan Hicks, Josey Jewell, Drue Tranquill, Devin White, Jerome Baker (cut candidate), Germaine Pratt (cut candidate), Eric Kendricks (cut candidate)

Draft Options

This group is viewed as one of the weaker positions in the draft.  Still, there are options and different flavors of LB available.  I wouldn’t bet the house that this is a year we see the Eagles fix their LB issues through the draft though.

  • Payton Wilson, Edgerrin Cooper, Junior Colson, Jeremiah Trotter, Trevin Wallace

Interior Offensive Line

If Jason Kelce retires, the Eagles will need to find a starting interior offensive lineman.  Due to Cam Jurgens positional versatility, that could be a guard or center.  I don’t think Tyler Steen showed enough where you would be comfortable going into next season with him as the starter.

Splash Signing

I don’t think the Eagles go for a splash signing, especially with Landon Dickerson on track to receive a massive extension.  Robert Hunt and Kevin Dotson are projected to receive the highest contracts this offseason via PFF.

PFF projects those two receive contracts with AAV around $17M a year, while Spotrac has Hunt around $8M.

The Eagles could sign a center instead.  Lloyd Cushenberry III had a career year in 2023.  He’s projected for a contract around $14M a year.  I don’t think the Eagles go that route either.

Value Signing

If the Eagles go the free agency route to fill their hole in the interior, I imagine they’ll go for a shorter term, team friendly contract.  Team history shows that Howie would prefer to draft another interior OL for the long term.

Guard Kevin Zeitler, who is 34 yet still one of the better blockers on the inside, would be an option to fill the gap short term.  He is projected to receive a contract worth about $7.5M/year.

Center Connor Williams could be a value add as well.  He’s one of the better centers in the league, but tore his ACL in week 14.  That could deflate his contract value.

Other Players Worth Consideration
  • Jonah Jackson, Jon Runyan Jr., Tyler Biadasz, Damien Lewis, Aaron Brewer
Draft Options

The draft is where I expect the Eagles to try to find their long-term answer on the interior.  This class isn’t top heavy with interior talent, but there’s still solid options.

Jackson Powers-Johnson seems like the favorite to be the first center selected.  He’s a big powerful center.  Zach Frazier from West Virginia is closer to the Cam Jurgens mold of athletic centers.

Graham Barton and Troy Fautanu are tackle prospects that are likely to convert to guard.  JPJ, Barton and Fautanu are likely to go in the top 50, so the Eagles will need to take one with their top two picks if they want one of the top interior prospects.

Don’t rule out Zak Zinter from Michigan either.  He was slated to be a top prospect but a late season injury will push his draft stock down.  A Howie Roseman fantasy, assuming the medicals hold up.

Safety

With Kevin Byard almost certain to be cut, the Eagles will have two safeties on their roster in 2024, Reed Blankenship and Sydney Brown.  Brown also has a good chance to miss the opening of the season due the torn ACL he suffered in early January.  He’s also the only safety on the roster in 2025.

Whether or not the Eagles re-sign Blankenship, the Eagles will need more depth and quality players at the position.  In today’s NFL, you really need three starting caliber safeties or a very versatile slot corner.

While the Eagles divert resources to the linebacker position, they have always attempted to land high end safeties.  They did so when signing Malcolm Jenkins in 2014, losing a bidding war for Marcus Williams in 2022, and trading for C.J. Gardner-Johnson in 2022 and Kevin Byard in 2023.  The Eagles attempted to re-sign CJGJ in the 2023 offseason, but he must have miscalculated his value as he ended up settling for a one year, $6.5M deal with the Lions.

The point is, the Eagles have shown that they’re willing to go after big name free agents at safety.  That pairs with their strategy of not spending high picks at safety, where they stick to the trenches, QB and WR (and probably corner if someone with a first round grade fell to them).  I expect this go around to be no different for free agency and there are a lot of options.  This might be the best position group in the 2024 free agent class.

Splash Signing

The biggest fish in this pond would be 2023 All-Pro Antoine Winfield Jr., but I imagine the Bucs will franchise tag him if they don’t come to an agreement on a contract. 

His contract projection is also around $18M/year.  Jessie Bates got a contract worth $16M/year last offseason and he didn’t have an All-Pro to his name.  Minkah Fitzpatrick and Derwin James have contracts north of $18M/year. don’t think Howie would allocate that much to a safety if he does hit the market.

Still, there are a lot of good, young safeties that the Eagles can invest in.

Kyle Dugger is the next best safety in my mind.  He has the size, athleticism and skill set to play in modern defenses that utilize a lot of big nickel and big dime packages.  Dugger would help fill in the gaps for teams that don’t like to invest much at LB (hint hint). 

He has a contract projection around $11M, though PFF thinks he’ll be franchise tagged.  If Winfield doesn’t hit the market, I think that price goes up, and Grant Delpit just re-signed with Cleveland for $12M/year.  I would spend that money for Kyle Dugger.

Kamren Curl (potential franchise tag) and Xavier McKinney are players that would also be splash signings, this is just an incredibly strong class. 

Value Signing

There are a lot of players we could tab for a value signing, and with how deep this position group is they may end up cannibalizing each other’s value.  Players such as Geno Stone, Julian Blackmon and Jordan Whitehead would be good considerations.

I’ll go with Jordan Fuller from the Rams, who would represent the best value among the group based on PFF’s projected AAV just under $5M.  He impacts the game similar to Marcus Epps; not necessarily a top end playmaker, but a solid contributor that will always be in the right spot and make the sure play.

Other Players Worth Consideration

I’ve already listed several players, but there’s still more starting caliber or better safeties available.

  • CJGJ (burned a bridge on departure), DeShon Elliott, Micah Hyde, Darnell Savage, Jeremy Chinn, Quandre Diggs (cut candidate)
Draft Options

This isn’t the deepest draft or one possessing an elite-tier safety prospect, but there’s still several players that should end up as starting caliber players.  Based on other needs for this team, I see the Eagles using free agency as the main tool to replenish their safety room.

  • Kamren Kinchens, Tyler Nubin, Javon Bullard (slot hybrid), Sione Vaki, Calen Bullock

Running Back

With only one running back on the roster for 2024 (Kenneth Gainwell), the Eagles will need to address the position somehow.  Gainwell is more of a rotation back, so the Eagles need someone that can handle more of the work load.  The front office must also consider how changes to the scheme next season might affect the type of running back they go after.

The good news for the Eagles is this is a fairly deep and star-studded RB class in free agency, which in turn should help drive down the contracts of the top backs.  That is likely offset by the fact that this isn’t a particularly strong draft class for the running back position.

The draft is full of bigger, north-south type runners that can handle a heftier workload next to Gainwell.  My concern is that the Eagles will lack an explosive running game if they go that route.

For that reason, I’d rather the Eagles go the free agency route as long as the contracts don’t get out of hand.  Check out my article regarding bringing back D’Andre Swift to get a much more in-depth breakdown of the running back market this offseason.

Splash Signing

Saquon Barkley still has the size and explosive ability that you covet out of a lead back.  Contract projections vary greatly between Spotrac and PFF for Barkley.  Spotrac has his contract estimated at $6.6M/year while PFF is at $11M/year.  If he’s close to the Spotrac projection, I’m all for signing Barkley.  If he’s closer to the PFF valuation then I’d pass.  I’m guessing he gets closer to the $11M range.

I would also consider D’Andre Swift a splash signing.  Only Spotrac has an estimation out currently – $5.6M AAV.  I would definitely bring him back on that deal.  That’s less than what Miles Sanders got last year, so I think he’ll get a deal at least worth that and probably a little more.  Considering who is available and what we have on the team, I would bring Swift back if his AAV was for $7M a year or less.

Value Signing

Value signings can definitely pay off.  We saw that this year with Devin Singletary and Zack Moss.  This is especially true if you have a good offensive line and/or play in an offense that forces defenses to honor the pass.  The Eagles have a combination of both.  If the Eagles approached the running back position by adding a value signing plus a draft pick, I wouldn’t be shocked.

Singletary and Moss are the two value signings I would target if not going for a splash signing.  Both are projected to earn contracts with an AAV of around $4M.

Other Players Worth Consideration

Josh Jacobs, Derrick Henry, Tony Pollard, A.J. Dillon, Antonio Gibson

Draft Options

The draft options are pretty limited.  The first back might not go until the late second or early third round.  Jonathan Brooks is probably the best all-purpose back but he tore his ACL in November.  There’s still a good chance he goes first.

The run on backs is likely to happen during the third and fourth rounds.  The Eagles are projected to have four 5th round picks so I imagine we’ll navigate around the board during the mid to late rounds.  I’m sure we’ll see some guys rise through the draft process, but as of now this isn’t the most exciting running back class.

Corum, Benson, Estime and Allen are big grinders.  Bucky Irving is a smaller, dynamic back that can provide a change of pace and receiving role – something the Eagles will need in 2025 with Gainwell gone.

  • Jonathan Brooks, Blake Corum, Trey Benson, Audric Estime, Braelon Allen, Bucky Irving, Jaylen Wright

Wide Receiver

The Eagles currently have A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith and Britain Covey on the roster.  They need more receivers plain and simple.  The free agent talent pool and draft class are both LOADED at receiver.  The Eagles would be wise to take advantage of this draft class, not only for the state of the team now, but for flexibility in a few years as A.J. nears the end of his contract (not saying they’ll move on, but would rather have options).

If I was a free agent wide receiver, I wouldn’t rank Philadelphia high on my list of teams to join.  A.J. and DeVonta are the clear-cut options, with Goedert third in the pecking order. 

Jalen is also a QB that is much more inclined to get through his first and second reads and then scramble, as opposed to less mobile QBs that have to get through the third and fourth reads.  If you’re the third receiver in this offense, you’re always going to be the third or fourth read in the progression.  This isn’t the place to go if you’re a receiver taking a prove it deal; you’re not going to get many opportunities.

Unless they overpay, the receivers the Eagles are likely to attract are those that are glue guys, those that were never really getting many targets at any point in their careers.  For that reason, if the Eagles want good third receivers, they’ll have to force one here through the draft.

The only caveat – like the 2023 cycle where the strong RB draft class capped the free agent market, this WR draft class may very well cap the contracts for the free agent receivers.

Splash Signing

A lot of names could be listed here, but I’ll go with Josh Reynolds or Noah Brown. 

Yes, I know none of these guys are the big names that could hit the market like Tee Higgins, Mike Evans or Calvin Ridley, but the Eagles aren’t anywhere close to paying for those types of receivers.  Even Curtis Samuel and Tyler Boyd are projected to get contracts with $8-11M AAV.  If the Eagles go the free agency route, they’re looking for role players.

Both of those guys have proven to be reliable options for their teams in recent years, and we saw Noah Brown have explosive moments with C.J. Stroud.

Reynolds and Brown projected to land contracts worth $7M and $5.6M per year respectively.  That’s a splash signing for the Eagles at WR – also a highly unlikely one.

Value Signing

The Eagles are much more likely to sign players like Braxton Berrios or Mack Hollins.  They’re projected to earn one-year, roughly $1.5M contracts.  Olamide Zaccheaus contract was $1.2M for reference.

Berrios is a consummate professional and provides punt return experience.  Hollins does all the dirty work, can win contested catches, and provides work on special teams.

Other Players Worth Consideration

This isn’t an exciting section for who the Eagles are likely to go after.  This is why dipping into this talented WR draft class is important.

  • Jauan, Jennings, Van Jefferson, Brandon Powell, Trenton Irwin, Greg Dortch
Draft Options

Check around the NFL world and you’ll realize that people are regarding this class as possibly the best receiver class since 2004.  That year had a record seven receivers taken in the first round.  This class could challenge that record.  It’s not only deep, but incredibly strong at the top, though the Eagles won’t be in position for one of Marvin Harrison Jr., Malik Nabers or Rome Odunze.

Still, the Eagles would be in position to go after prospects such as Brian Thomas Jr., Troy Franklin, Ladd McConkey, Xavier Legette, Adonai Mitchell, and I can go on really.  I don’t think the Eagles will use their first-round pick on a receiver, so that does eliminate some of these guys.  The rankings on these WRs are sure to change as the draft approaches.

Others names to watch for:

  • Xavier Worthy, Keon Coleman, Devontez Walker, Ja’Lynn Polk

Corner

The Eagles could roll out a combination of Darius Slay, Kelee Ringo, Isaiah Rodgers and Avonte Maddox on opening day and probably be okay at the position, so that’s why I have this group lower on the positions of need order than other positions.  But when we factor in every element, corner is probably the biggest need that should be addressed long term.

To start, corner is a more important position than linebacker or safety.  That’s why more players get paid more money playing corner than safety or linebacker typically.  We also need to factor in that the Eagles have two corners under contract for 2025 (Slay and Bradberry will be cut at some point before that season).  And last, this team doesn’t have a number one corner anymore.

Slay was the best corner on the team last year, but at this point in his career he’s a better second corner.  Ringo has a lot of promise but needs to hone his craft, and Rodgers would be an extreme outlier to be a top corner at 5’10” and 170lbs.

As outsiders looking in, we’ve been saying for years that the Eagles need to address the corner position long term.  That talk was mainly geared to the outside corners, now the Eagles need to find answers in the slot as well.

This free agent class has decent options throughout, but the draft is pretty deep with starter level talent.

How I would approach the corner group is very much tied into the plan for edge rusher.  Scroll down to the Edge section for more on that.

Splash Signing

Jaylon Johnson was one of the top corners in the NFL this past season and would probably garner a $20M+ AAV contract but he’s likely to be franchise tagged or extended. 

L’Jarius Sneed is likely to be the top option in the class and he is a very good consolation prize.  His 55.9 passer rating allowed was 5th best in the NFL last season among corners, and he often traveled with top wideouts.  He’s probably getting a contract north of $17M a year, especially if Johnson doesn’t hit the market. 

The Eagles could sign Sneed, but I expect that he’ll go to a team like the Texans that have a championship window and money to blow.

Kenny Moore’s name was thrown around a lot at the trade deadline, but he ultimately stayed in Indianapolis.  I expect a lot of Eagle fans want us to pursue Moore, but his age gives me concern despite his stellar season.  He’s now 30, and when you look at the slot corners around the league, you’ll be hard pressed to find one above that age.  It’s a young man’s position, so I’d rather look for another answer in the slot.

I don’t see the Eagles making a splash signing, unless they cut Maddox (pre-6/1).  If they do, it would open up space to go after a corner while dealing with the dead cap space of Slay/Bradberry that’s coming. 

Most of the top corners outside of Johnson and Sneed are in their late 20s.  If the Eagles make a splash move, Kendall Fuller would be a sold option.  He’s almost 29 though so I would try to sign a shorter deal.  Same with Chidobe Awuzie.  They’re both projected to ink deals valued between $11-14M a year.

Value Signing

If the Eagles decide to go the value route, I imagine it will be for a slot corner after cutting Maddox.  Amik Robertson would be my pick. 

He’s undersized as an outside corner, but he has a physicality and mentality that allows him to play bigger than his size.  He played mostly outside for the Raiders this season, but he played a decent amount in the slot in 2022.  Positional versatility really boosts his value and he’s just 25 years old.  Raider fans and writers want Robertson back on the team.

Neither Spotrac or PFF have a contract projection for Robertson.  At just 5’8”, he’s undersized to be a top outside corner and I think many teams would view him as a (much cheaper) slot corner.  I think he would get a contract between $6-8M a year.

Other Players Worth Consideration

Again, I don’t think the Eagles are going after a major name at corner in free agency, especially considering age and how inflated corner contracts can get.  Still, there are some options on the market, with a couple high-upside high-risk players included.

  • Adoree’ Jackson, Tavierre Thomas (slot), Kristian Fulton, Jeff Okudah, Myles Bryant (slot)

Draft Options

The draft is where I’d look for corners.  This class may not have a Sauce Gardner (though Terrion Arnold is rising fast), but it is very deep.  There are different styles for any type of scheme that a team wants to run.  The Eagles draft position is also in a prime spot to grab a corner.  The Birds might miss out on the top couple of corners picking at 22, but they should be in position to nab pretty much any other corner they want.

Edge

Like corner, edge rusher is actually a much higher need for the Eagles based on long term need and positional value, but they currently have a group of Haason Reddick, Josh Sweat, Nolan Smith and probably Brandon Graham.  They don’t NEED to get another starter.

However, they should try to upgrade the position and find a long-term option.  Reddick and Sweat are both on the last year of their contracts, and like I highlighted in the Wild Card section, I think only one of the two will receive an extension.

After the top two, BG is playing one more year at the most and Nolan Smith left a lot to be desired in his first season.  He didn’t play much, but the jury is still out on him.  If I were the Eagles, I would be approaching both the draft and free agency in my quest to upgrade the spot.

The good news is free agency has some young, up and coming talent (similar to Reddick when he signed in 2022), and intriguing options in the draft.

How I would approach the edge rushers is very much tied into the plan for addressing the corner situation.  Like I mentioned in the corner section, there are not many good AND young corners likely to hit the market.  L’Jarius Sneed is likely the only one, with all of the other top options 28 or older.

Meanwhile, the edge rusher market has the potential to be a loaded group.  Josh Allen could hit free agency, but Jacksonville will tag him if they have to, as is probably the case with Brian Burns. 

Still, the group will have Chase Young, Danielle Hunter, Bryce Huff, Jonathan Greenard, Josh Uche and A.J. Epenesa available. 

If you’re unfamiliar with Huff, Greenard and Uche that’s ok, I’ll have videos about them.  Just understand that they’re on a similar career trajectory as Haason Reddick, just at a younger age.  They’ve all had ridiculously high pressure and/or sack rates at one point or another in their early careers, and are waiting for an expansion of their roles and playing time.

If the Eagles can’t land one of the top young edge rushers in free agency, I would still look to sign an older vet as a third pass rusher (the Eagles desperately need one).  There are several available this year.

Here’s how the corner and edge rusher groups tie in together.  Due to scarcity of young free agent cornerbacks, I would try to land L’Jarius Sneed.  If unavailable, then I would look to the draft for a corner, and go after one of the young edge rushers in free agency.

If Sneed signed in Philadelphia, then I would look to the draft for a young edge rusher.  It would need to be a first round edge though, as the group in the draft is top heavy and lacks depth.  You’ll have to get an edge sooner than later if you want an impact rusher.

When looking at early mock drafts, the Eagles pick at 22 is right in the sweet spot for edge rusher AND corner.  Obviously, the Eagles can only pick one, so I would prioritize one group in free agency and the other in the draft.

Splash Signing

If Josh Allen is available, then he’s the splash free agent you go after, though I think the Eagles would get outbid.

My big target would be Bryce Huff.  I haven’t seen his name brought up much around Eagles Nation, but he’s a name people should be familiar with (1.5 sacks and 8 pressures against Philadelphia in week six).  He has been more of a role player throughout his career with limited snaps, but he burst onto the scene this season after signs of a breakout last year.

Among edge rushers in 2023, Huff was second in the NFL in pressure rate at 20.3% (Micah Parsons was first at 20.4%).  He was seventh in sack rate at 3.4% (just behind fellow breakout Greenard at 3.6%).  This wasn’t just a one-off season either, he was third in pressure rate in 2022 at 19.4% and 29th in sack rate.  Sack rates have huge fluctuations year to year, even among top rushers; pressure rates are much stickier.  Reddick was 53rd in pressure rate and 41st in sack rate for comparison.  Reddick had just two more pressures and one more sack than Huff on 205 more pass rush snaps.

It’s not just sack and pressure quantities either.  It’s the quality of pressures that are even more impressive.  In my article questioning how elite Haason Reddick is, I referenced Brandon Thorns pressure and sack ratings.  He assigns grades to each pressure and sack based on whether they’re beating top tier blockers, winning with skill, or getting pressure/sacks while unblocked or cleaning up.

Huff had more high quality (winning with skill vs being unblocked/clean up) pressures and sacks than Reddick did (on 205 less snaps).  He had more rare high quality (beating top tackles) wins than Reddick did.  In fact, Reddick hasn’t recorded a rare high-quality pressure or sack in the four years that Thorn has charted the pressures. 

Huff is a rising star, his only downside is that he isn’t thought of as a good run defender, though he hasn’t been asked to take on that role much.  He has been vocal about wanting to be a three-down player.  He has the tools to be one.

Spotrac has his yearly average estimated at $9.2M.  That seems low – PFF has him at $13M.  I wouldn’t be surprised to see him get closer to $16-17M.  I would make that deal for a rising soon to be 26-year-old.

I would add Greenard and Uche in this group of splash signings as well, but I won’t waste as much space on them.  Uche led the NFL in pressure rate and sack rate in 2022 and was 30th in pressure rate this year.  Greenard is a more recent breakout, as he is sixth in sack rate and 38th in pressure rate this year after not playing enough snaps to qualify in prior seasons.  He’s also the best run defender of the group.  Their contract projections are all over the place too, but will likely command somewhere between $11-15M a season, at least.

Value Signing

If the Eagles don’t land one of these three, there’s still a lot of strong consolation prizes to add as a third rusher (plus dipping into the draft).

Za’Darius Smith and Jadeveon Clowney are older, short-term options and both ranked top 25 in pressure rate in 2023.  Leonard Floyd is in a similar bucket though he wasn’t as consistent as those two.  Andrew Van Ginkel was extremely efficient, third in pass rush win rate on 300 opportunities, and he also fits the mold of a versatile edge defender that the Eagles have been trending towards recently.

Clowney and Smith might not be as much of value signings as Van Ginkel or Floyd, but that’s also due to how much edge rushers get paid.  Even the older ones.

Other Players Worth Consideration
  • Danielle Hunter, Chase Young, A.J. Epenesa, Carl Lawson, Marcus Davenport,
Draft Options

There is a solid group of edge rushers at the top of this class, but the depth drops off quickly.  If the Eagles are set on grabbing one of these guys, it’ll need to be in the first or they’re risking not getting one in the second.  Scarcity probably pushes these guys up the board a little more as well. 

I think scheme really matters here.  If the Eagles have a defensive coordinator that wants bigger edge rushers, then Latu, Verse and Trice are the players they’ll be interested in.  If they want versatile edge rushers (likely if they go the college coordinator route), then Turner and Chop Robinson are more likely.  But Turner is likely long gone before the Eagles pick. 

There’s been teams that are multiple in their fronts and use a combination of bigger and smaller edge rushers (think Belichick, Vrabel).  That will open up the board some, but scheme will play a factor in who the Eagles draft or go after in free agency. Note – with Vic Fangio now hired, he’ll likely prefer versatile edge rushers as he drops his guys into coverage a significant amount.

  • Dallas Turner, Laiatu Latu, Jared Verse, Chop Robinson, Bralen Trice

Blocking Tight End

The Eagles currently have two tight ends on the roster – Dallas Goedert and Grant Calcaterra.  They need to get another tight end regardless, but they should try to get someone that can provide more as a blocker than Calcaterra.

Goedert’s contract is up after 2025 so they could look to build for life after Goedert, but that isn’t likely with this year’s draft class.  I wouldn’t be surprised if Goedert sticks around after 2025 either.

Splash Signing

No splash signing.  The Eagles have enough holes, shelling out much money doesn’t make sense.  Guys like Hunter Henry and Gerald Everett are projected to get deals ranging between $5-7M a year.  Not happening with how much is allocated to Goedert.

Value Signing

Of the available tight ends, Pharaoh Brown was one of the better blockers.  Adam Trautman is solid as well.  Those guys will probably go for deals around $1.5-3M a year.  Jack Stoll is likely to do the same, and I’d rather just re-sign him if that’s the case.

Other Players Worth Consideration

We’re talking bottom of the barrel players here.  This list isn’t going to excite anyone.

  • Austin Hooper, Mike Gesicki, Drew Sample, Brock Wright, Harrison Bryant

Draft Options

This draft class isn’t very deep.  However, Brock Bowers could potentially fall to the Eagles based on positional value.  The Eagles won’t pull the trigger there, as they know the contract value of drafting first round tight ends compared to priority positions like pass rusher and receiver doesn’t make sense.  Bowers is close to a top five overall player in this class, but the Eagles aren’t taking a first round tight end.

Ja’Tavion Sanders is an intriguing prospect with his size and athleticism that could be a target after the first round.  Again, with the holes the Eagles need to fill, I don’t think tight end will be a priority this offseason.  I won’t get around to watching much of the tight end group until much closer to the draft.

Pass Rushing Defensive Tackle

This is actually a much higher priority for the Eagles long term needs, but considering this is the deepest position on the team, they don’t actually NEED to get someone this offseason.

Still, this team lacks a consistent pass rusher on the interior outside of Jalen Carter.  The Eagles should build their pass rush game plan around Carter as he is going to be a force in the league.  That will be harder to do if they don’t find someone that can consistently win one-on-one on the other side.

I mentioned in my video about the Eagles pass rush that Jordan Davis and Milton Williams weren’t getting it done as pass rushers, as they consistently rank in the bottom half in pressure rate.  They are still young and can grow, but I would be looking for better options for this upcoming season and long term.

Splash Signing

The splash signing would be Chris Jones if he hit the open market, but the Eagles aren’t in position to shell out a contract worth $30M+ a year.  Christian Wilkins is probably getting tagged and is also out of the Eagles price range and so is Justin Madubuike, who led the NFL in sacks from an interior rusher. 

While I don’t see a splash signing due to the Eagles other more pertinent needs, Sheldon Rankins would be my pick.  He was 21st in pressure rate and tied for 13th in sacks among interior rushers.  Spotrac and PFF project he’ll earn a contract around $10M in AAV.  Rankins will be 30 during the season, so I wouldn’t commit anything over a two-year deal with him.  He played on a one year, $9.75M contract this season.

Like I said, I don’t think the Eagles pay that much at the position.

Value Signing

Quinton Jefferson was one of the most efficient pass rushers on the interior last season and really has been most of his career.  He was ninth in pressure rate and second in sack rate among interior pass rushers in 2023. 

He’ll be 31 when the season starts, so that helps to keep his contract down.  He’s also undersized and not great against the run, so playing as a third down rusher and with bigger DTs that can eat up blockers would suit him best.  If only there was a team in need of such a player.

PFF projects he’ll ink a one-year contract worth $3.5M.  Sign me up.

Other Players Worth Consideration

There’s several older interior pass rushers that could fit the bill.  But like I discussed in the Fletcher Cox contract breakdown, it would make more sense for the Eagles to run it back with Fletch as opposed to signing an older free agent.  He has also performed well enough compared to other older pass rushers to warrant bringing him back.

  • D.J. Reader (outpriced), DaQuan Jones, Shelby Harris, Javon Kinlaw (younger, potential prove it deal)

Draft Options

There are two defensive tackles likely to go in round one with solid pass rushing chops.  I wouldn’t be surprised if the Eagles end up drafting one of those guys, especially with how the board may fall.  I know people want an edge rusher, but players that can rush the passer from any alignment are at a premium (see: Chris Jones; $30M AAV deal).  QBs often say that they can deal with edge pressure, it’s the interior pressure that gives them the most trouble.  Having Jalen Carter and another top 10 interior pass rusher would be downright scary for defenses.

Byron Murphy II and Jer’Zhan Newton are the cream of the crop when it comes to penetrating defensive tackles in this class.  Murphy has more versatility due to his size, strength and explosive power than Newton and he’ll test well at the combine.  He’s quickly rising up draft boards.

Still, there are other defensive tackles that project to be solid pass rushers in this class if the Eagles don’t want to use another first on a defensive tackle.  T’Vondre Sweat will probably get picked decently high as well, but he projects as more of a run stuffer early in his career.  I don’t think the Eagles will go that route.

  • Michael Hall Jr., Kris Jenkins, Mekhi Wingo, Brandon Dorlus

Punter

The Eagles don’t have a punter signed for next season.  I’m not going to lie to you, I’m not incredibly knowledgeable about punters.  If the Eagles don’t re-sign Braden Mann, then I expect the go with the practice squad poach and elevate strategy that they employed last season.

Like I mentioned in the free agent section, Braden Mann has been a great find for Philadelphia thus far.  The Eagles should try to lock him up long term.

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