Looking Ahead: Eagles Who Will Not Return in 2014
By Dave Searles
Dec 22, 2013; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles safety Patrick Chung (23) celebrates with safety Nate Allen (29) during the second quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports
7) Nate Allen, Philadelphia Eagles Safety
Result: Re-signs with Eagles.
I don’t believe they’ll let Nate Allen hit the open market. It’s not because they’re afraid that he may find a bigger offer than they can pay, but the Eagles are in need of any safety help they can get and Allen knows the system. With two other safeties also scheduled to hit free agency, the position will be seeing upgrades via draft pick or free-agent signing regardless of what happens with Allen.
8) Kurt Coleman, Philadelphia Eagles Safety
Result: Gone.
Coleman will be best remembered for two things in his Eagles tenure. The first would be intercepting Rex Grossman three times as a rookie. The second moment is less attractive, having been posterized by Trent Richardson (though credit where it’s due, he made the tackle) and having a rule formed to prevent it from happening again.
9) Colt Anderson, Philadelphia Eagles Safety
Result: Tests market, signs elsewhere.
Anderson led the Eagles in special teams tackles, having been an absolute force there since joining the Eagles in 2010. Though being named the Special Teams MVP in 2011 and 2012, Anderson has been underwhelming at actual safety play. With the emergence of Brandon Boykin as the team’s gunner on punt returns, Anderson’s best contributions may see less impact. If you’re going to see Andy Reid and the Chiefs poach former Eagles, I’d feel confident saying Colt is near the top of that list.