2008 Free Agents: Defensive Tackles

The Iggles have an outstanding DT tandem right now. Mike Patterson(when he is not high), and Brodrick Bunkley are both first round picks who really have made an impact on the Bird’s defense. Bunkley saw his first real playing time last year, and made everybody around him better. The Eagles run defense went from 26th(2006), to 7th(2007) with Bunkley as the starter. His ability to eat blockers made it hard for teams to run on the Eagles, and definitely made Mike Patterson a much more productive player. Patterson lead the NFC in tackles for a DT with 66 and registered 4 sacks.

The main problem I see at DT is there is almost no production from the backups. Ian Scott spent the entire season on IR, Montae Reagor spent most of the season as a healthy scratch, Kimo von Oelhoffen brought nothing, and Lajuan Ramsey gave you nothing as well. The Eagles need to bring in at least two good DTs for rotational purposes. Bunkley and Patterson can not play every down, and need some one to spell them from time to time.

Looking at this list of free agents, I really see very little talent available. The two best DTs Albert Haynesworth and Corey Williams were both franchise tagged. after those two you are left with average players at best. My guess is you won’t see any of these guys wearing midnight green this season. Look for the Bird’s to draft a DT in the mid rounds.

Here is the Free Agent DT list:

Free Agent Defensive Tackles

Key Restricted Free Agent Defensive Tackles