Philadelphia Eagles: A simulation of upcoming off-season
3. Free agent signings
WR DeSean Jackson
Contract- 3 Years, $24 million ($8 million per year)
We believe Jackson will turn down other offers to rejoin the Eagles.
Despite turning 30 in 2016, Jackson showed no signs of slowing down, finishing the season with a stat line of 56 receptions 1,005 yards 4 touchdowns. That would be a much needed shot in the arm for the receiving core.
CB D.J. Hayden
Contract- 3 Years, $9 million ($3 million per year)
A former first round pick from the Houston Cougars, Hayden never turned into the shutdown cover corner the Oakland Raiders thought he would become on the outside.
A move to the slot corner in 2016 was beneficial to Hayden who forced opposing quarterbacks into a passer rating of 85.5 when targeted.
With cornerback Jalen Mills on the roster and a high 2017 pick likely to used on addressing the cornerback position, Hayden would be an inexpensive option to fill the slot role. That would allow Malcolm Jenkins to focus on safety full time.
DE Trent Cole
Contract- 2 Years, $4 million ($2 million per year)
Howie is getting the gang back together!
The Eagles will need depth at defensive end after cutting ties with Connor Barwin. Cole fits perfectly in the 4-3 defensive scheme, and that allowed him to finish with the second-highest sack total in Eagles history with 85.5.
OG Jonathan Cooper
Contract- 2 Years, $2.6 million
The offensive line will need to add more depth. Halapoulivaati Vaitai aka “Big V” and Wisniewski aren’t enough.
Cooper, a former first round draft pick, could be a low-risk, high-reward signing with the athleticism and power to intrigue Roseman and the Eagles.
LB Jonathan Bostic
Contract- 1 Year $1 million
Bostic was selected by the Chicago Bears in the second round of the 2013 draft and would be another low-risk signing.
The former Florida Gators linebacker had 140 tackles, two sacks and an interception in his first two seasons but since has dealt with several injures. He’s also been traded twice.
Bostic is only 25 and could be a nice role player in Schwartz’s defense.
WR Cordarrelle Patterson
Contract- 2 Years, $4 million ($2 million per year)
Patterson fills the utility role that was left open after the Eagles cut ties with Josh Huff.
A former first round pick possesses incredible speed and athleticism, and that could benefit the Eagles in many ways.
Head coach Doug Pederson loves to use different types of screen plays and reverses that Patterson could be featured in.
Don’t forget he also has incredible ability as a return man.