With the NFL free agency market opening in less than a week, the Philadelphia Eagles have quite a few holes to fill. They have already started to clear some space with the release of defensive backs Kevin Byard and Avonte Maddox. Oddly enough, defense should be the focus of GM Howie Roseman’s attention. Last year, they ranked 26th in total defense and 31st is passing defense. Before the draft, here is some moves the Eagles should look to make.
Justin Simmons
With the lack of a true free safety last year, The Philadelphia Eagles defensive backfield struggled. Coming of an All-Pro selection in 2022, James Bradberry gave up more yards since 2018 and more touchdowns than any point in his career. Reed Blankenship could also benefit from a veteran like Simmons to help show him the ropes. Simmons has also played for new Eagles defensive coordinator, Vic Fangio. With a new defensive scheme, it could help having Simmons’ familiarity with Fangio to help quarterback the defense.
Devin White
Last years underwhelming linebacker group sent the Eagles into desperation. They lost first year starter, Nakobe Dean to injury, but he wasn’t exactly playing lights out. They eventually picked up an aging, injury-ridden Shaq Leonard, who just couldn’t put it together. White is a proven leader in the middle of a solid Buccaneers defense with tremendous pass coverage ability. He can be a liability in run defense, but with a slew of big tackles on the Eagles defensive line, White should be able to more easily make plays.
Andrew Van Ginkel
Another former player for Fangio, Van Ginkel experienced his best season of his career recording six sacks and one interception. He is a versatile player with the ability to play the inside and outside linebacker positions. Given last years failures at linebacker, a player who can step into multiple spots is a plus and Van Ginkel is not someone who is going to break the bank.
Jon Runyan Jr.
As a former Eagles great’s son, Runyan will be welcomed by the fanbase with open arms. With the devastating retirement of center Jason Kelce, there will be a hole to fill at right guard as Cam Jurgens sets to fill Kelce’s shoes a center. Runyan has been a full time starter for the Packers the last three years and is a strong run blocker, but has struggles in pass blocking. Hopefully, that is something he can fix at Stoutland University.
Tony Pollard
Pollard had plenty of success under now Eagles offensive coordinator Kellen Moore. He is a strong runner who is a great pass option out of the backfield. D’andre Swift struggled to find consistency from game to game last year, but still found a way to rush for over 1,000 yards. With Pollard being a more of an every down back, he will be able to capitalize on more opportunities than Swift. Coming off a broken leg, Pollard wasn’t the player many hoped to see last year, but look for a bounce back season 2022 pro-bowl selection.
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