Philadelphia Eagles shouldn’t sign another cornerback and here’s why
The Philadelphia Eagles have been rumored to be in the market for another starting-caliber cornerback to play opposite Darius Slay. Is this really the best decision for their future though?
Admittedly, behind Pro Bowl cornerback Darius Slay, the Eagles don’t have much in the area of proven talent in the secondary. Fourth-year veteran Avonte Maddox has experience playing both outside and in the nickel, but it’s been reported this new staff would like to keep him primarily in the slot.
It’s a lose-lose situation for the Eagles if Maddox doesn’t perform well as the primary slot defender. He doesn’t play well outside against bigger receivers. Just ask him about Davante Adams if you ever have the opportunity to speak with him.
Outside of those two, the Eagles have too many question marks at the position to even get a rough idea of the depth chart going into camp. The rest of the unit that should really be competing for a spot on this roster own the following names: Michael Jacquet, Shakial Taylor, Nate Meadors, Kevon Seymour, Craig James, and Josiah Scott. You can see why the popular opinion from this passionate fan base is to sign one of the solid options on the free-agent market.
The Philadelphia Eagles don’t need to open the purse for another cornerback.
Enter Steven Nelson. Recently, he’s been a very popular name amongst Eagles fans and members of the Inside The Iggles staff as many have urged the front office to make a move to sign him as soon as possible. Let’s examine why that might be a positive for the present but will ultimately set this franchise back going into 2022 and beyond.
It’s no secret the Eagles are in a rebuilding phase, some prefer to call it a transition period. Nonetheless, the 2021 team is not going to be hoisting the Lombardi Trophy in February. This is exactly why this front office should figure out what they have in the very young group of corners behind Darius Slay.
Signing a guy like Nelson would of course upgrade the CB2 spot, but it will rob guys like Michael Jacquet and rookie Zech McPhearson the snaps and experience that could allow them to be contributors in 2022 and beyond. For the latter reason, signing the 28-year-old former Steelers corner to a one-year deal would be a waste.
Is he the better option right now? Yes, he is. This fanbase wants to be competitive no matter what, but every NFL team outside of the Buccaneers has a hole in the roster somewhere.
Eagles 90-man training camp depth chart. light. Trending
Between potentially having three first-round picks in next year’s draft, and getting cap relief when the Wentz contract comes off the books. The Eagles will be able to add a lot of talent to this roster. Knowing what positions need upgrades is going to be important. Letting the young guys play, even if it means going through growing pains in 2021 is the best option and will better serve the Philadelphia Eagles as they move into the future.