The Internet is buzzing about the Eagles adding some big-name players later this week. We sort out the most likely guys coming to Philly.
Based on recent media reports, it looks like informed Eagles fans can get a sneak peak at which big-name players could be wearing Midnight Green this September.
First, here's a look at what we know as of Tuesday morning about what could happen when free-agent season begins Friday:
1. Jevon Kearse will be cut and Thomas Tapeh will not be offered a new contract. Drew Rosenhaus, Kearse's agent,has confirmed Kearse will be an ex-Eagles very soon. The Birds are also looking for a multi-dimensional fullback.
2. Stewart Bradley will start at middle linbacker. At least, that's what Jim Johnson told the Inquirer earlier this week. Omar Gaiither will flip-flop from weakside to strongside linebacker,with Chris Gocong playing defensive end on pass plays.
What this means:
1. The Eagles will not sign a big-name defensive lineman or linebacker.
2. The Eagles will target one of three positions if they sign a big-name free agent.
a. Defensive back
b. Offensive line
c. Wide receiver
3. With a number of quality receivers available in the draft, defensive back would be a position the Eagles can address in free agency. They can also get a good third wide receiver as a mid-price free agent.
4. Asante Samuel and Gibril Wilson are the most likely candidates to get a big contract from the Eagles. Samuel would command $8 million a year. Wilson would be a lot cheaper and play along side Brian Dawkins until Dawk retires.
5. One rumor has the Eagles as the dark horse in the race to sign Steelers guard Alan Faneca, who wants the biggest cotract ever for a offensive lineman. Shawn Andrews would move to right tackle. This would be out-of-character for the Eagles, who prefer to develop their own linemen.
6. If the Eagles can't sign one of those players, receivers such as Andre' Davis, Donte' Stallworth, Mushin Muhammad or Bryant Johnson would be an option. This would let the Eagles take a defensive back with the 19th pick in the first round.
7. Other names are defensive ends Bobby McCray, Antwan Odom and Travis Leboy. But defensive ends will go at a premium, so it's unlikely the Eagles will spend big bucks at that position.
Predictions
1. Gibril Wison. This choice makes the most sense financially and Wilson would be a defensive playmaker. The Eagles could also force the Giants to pay a lot of money to keep Wilson.
2. Andre' Davis. A deep threat third receiver who is a great kick returner. Would solve two problems.
3. Bryant Johnson. If Davis is taken, Johnson is a third receiver who has great speed and size, and is a deep threat.
4. Donte' Stallworth. Stranger things have happened.
5. Bobby McCray. A quality pass rusher who was buried on Jacksonville's depth chart last year. Would be a quality signing.
Please leave your comment below.
