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Stefen Wisniewski could surprise Eagles fans in 2017

By Ryan Quigley

Dec 22, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles offensive guard Stefen Wisniewski (61) in action against the New York Giants at Lincoln Financial Field. The Philadelphia Eagles won 24-19. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 22, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles offensive guard Stefen Wisniewski (61) in action against the New York Giants at Lincoln Financial Field. The Philadelphia Eagles won 24-19. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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Stefen Wisniewski could play a major role for the Eagles next season.

The Philadelphia Eagles made some exciting moves in free agency. Not only did they sign wideouts Alshon Jeffery and Torrey Smith, but they also added some depth on the offensive line. Chance Warmack, a former No. 10 overall draft selection, reunites with former Alabama offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland, who made him a dominating presence in college.

But let’s not forget about the re-signing of Stefen Wisniewski, either. Mainly utilized as a fill-in on the offensive line, Wisniewski performed well when called upon in 2016. With a new three-year deal in hand (the deal can be worth up to $15 million with incentives), the 28-year-old lineman may play a large role for the Eagles sooner rather than later.

According to Pro Football Focus, Wisniewski could be one of the best low-key signings of free agency.

"Stefen Wisniewski has never really graded badly over a full season in his NFL career. He earned impressive grades at center for the Raiders for the first three years of his career, allowing just two sacks in those three seasons before a relatively average season in 2014. He then went on to have an inconsistent season for the Jaguars before another up-and-down year at guard for the Eagles, helping to patch Philadelphia’s offensive line when injuries struck. Wisniewski, though, has always demonstrated that he is at least a capable starter, and also that he has positional versatility. He could provide a big boost for the Eagles again in 2017, rather than causing chaos when injury forces a sub-par player into the lineup."

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Though Wisniewski can play guard, he plays his best football when lined up as a center. Jason Kelce, the Eagles’ long-time starter at center, is falling out of favor in Philadelphia. The Eagles are reportedly open to trading the 29-year-old center. If the Eagles are able to find a trade partner for Kelce, it wouldn’t be much of a surprise if Wisniewski runs away with the starting job in 2017.

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