Brandon Graham’s return could be problematic for Timmy Jernigan
Everybody is happy that Brandon Graham is back, but does that mean Timmy Jernigan could be in danger of becoming a cap casualty?
Last season, the Philadelphia Eagles had a tough decision to make regarding defensive tackle, Timmy Jernigan. As Jernigan injured his back during workouts, the Eagles came to realize that they might’ve had some buyers remorse after inking Jernigan to a four-year deal. Not only did his production drop off towards the end of the 2017 season, but Jernigan could’ve also missed the entire 2018 NFL season, thanks to his injury.
Fortunately, that wasn’t the case. The Eagles held on to Jernigan, and he was able to return to the team late in the season. Although his missed time probably affected his play a bit, it was clear that the Eagles lost his presence throughout the 2018 season. Of course, the Eagles would like to have Jernigan on board for 2019, but as a potential cap casualty, there are some doubts with his contract. Maybe Jernigan gets lucky with Howie Roseman and restructures his contract.
Related Story. Wentz, Ertz react to Graham’s extension with the Eagles. light
Or maybe the Eagles cut Jernigan loose and save up the cap space that way. As of right now, the situation is a question mark, but the return of Brandon Graham doesn’t make the situation any better for Jernigan. With Graham’s generous three-year, $40 million deal, the Eagles are going to need to find a way to free up some space sooner than later. And seeing as though the Eagles are very intrigued with defensive linemen in this draft, Jernigan could seem entirely replaceable.
Is the focus on drafting defensive tackles?
Howie Roseman stated that he believes the 2019 NFL Draft has ‘historical’ talent at defensive line. That includes both, defensive end and defensive tackle. Without Graham, and maybe even Chris Long, the Eagles are down to two defensive ends who are considered to be starting caliber players, which isn’t ideal considering that they love to rotate guys in and out.
With Graham back though, the Eagles are just as strong as they were the past two seasons. However, at defensive tackle, they could use some help. Knowing that Graham is back, the Eagles are more than likely to draft a defensive tackle to pair up next to Fletcher Cox. Could the Eagles keep Jernigan and draft another prospect? Sure. Seeing as though Jernigan takes up a mighty cap hit of $13 million, his release makes sense.
Next. Eagles re-sign veteran defensive end, Brandon Graham. dark
If the Eagles are able to free up space by restructuring Jernigan, then consider it a win. However, if doing so is too risky for future cap space, then it could save the Eagles seven million dollars by releasing Jernigan into the market. It’s not an easy decision, but it’s definitely something that will be considered within the next few weeks.
P.S. Michael Bennett can play inside too. Just something to remember.