Less-mentioned 2022 NFL free agents the Eagles must consider

Carlton Davis gives the Eagles a mix of skill and youth at cornerback.

In 57 games with 56 starts as a member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (that includes six career playoff games), Carlton Davis has added 236 total tackles to his NFL resume. That includes nine that have resulted in a loss of yardage and 196 tackles of the solo variety. He’s also been great in coverage.

At last count, he’s broken up 56 passes and swiped six career interceptions to go along with two career forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries. That hasn’t resulted in any Pro Bowl nods or an All-Pro designation, but it has earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches. Some might say that’s more important.

The best cornerbacks in the coming NFL Draft are probably Derek Stingley, Ahmad Gardner, and Trent McDuffie in that order, but you never know how the selection meeting will play out or if any of those guys will be available when the Birds are on the clock at 15. Don’t be surprised if Philadelphia goes out and pays for a cover guy in free agency.

They have an obvious hole on the opposite side of Darius Slay in the defensive formation if Steven Nelson is allowed to walk. Davis is one of the best combinations of youth and skill that will be available. He turns 26 next December.

J.C. Jackson will be another name that gets tossed around. He’s probably the best impending free agent at the position, but with names like Stephon Gilmore, Casey Hayward, and Darious Williams floating around, Davis might be someone who allows the Birds to strengthen a position of need without having to spend Darius Slay-type money.