Philadelphia Eagles sign another defensive tackle: 3 Things to know
Just when you thought it was going to be a relatively quiet day, the Philadelphia Eagles do what the Philadelphia Eagles always seem to do. They make a depth signing seemingly out of nowhere. Shortly before lunchtime on the East Coast during the 25th day of May, an announcement came from the Birds that they’re adding a defensive tackle to the nest.
What you’re thinking is obvious. “Another one”? Well, according to Eagles vice president and general manager Howie Roseman, this team is banking on strengthening themselves in the trenches, and the plan is to ride that to another Vince Lombardi Trophy.
Here’s what we’ve learned and a few ideas on what this means.
Here are three thoughts on the Philadelphia Eagles’ addition of Willie Henry.
Willie Henry is in, and a linebacker is given his walking papers. Here are three thoughts.
1. Okay, who is Willie Henry?
Willie Henry was taken in the fourth round of the 2016 NFL Draft. You remember that one, don’t you? Philly landed a redheaded quarterback who’s no longer with the team.
Henry’s selection came 130 spots later. The Baltimore Ravens took a flier on him but since his release, he’s been a bit of a journeyman. The Ravens released him on December 15th of 2019, and since then, he’s been with the San Francisco 49ers and Houston Texans.
The Birds are Henry’s third landing spot since January of 2020.
2. Philly releases a linebacker in a subsequent move.
Henry’s addition means linebacker Joe Bachie is out. He’s a former undrafted free agent that has two total tackles on his resume after appearing in four games for Philly in 2020.
Bachie was on the field for 18 defensive snaps and 56 special teams snaps last season. That’s two percent and 13 percent of the team’s totals in both categories.
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3. Let’s talk about some numbers.
Don’t be surprised if you see Bachie again. Guys tend to get stuck on the Eagles’ player carousel from time to time, but for now, it’s going to see how much Henry develops while looking up at guys like Fletcher Cox, Javon Hargrave, Hassan Ridgeway, T.Y. McGill, and, possibly, rookies Marlon Tuipulotu and Milton Williams on the depth chart.