If we're being honest, the new 'gold standard' for bargain bin free agency signings is Zack Baun. That isn't just true for the Philadelphia Eagles organization. The NFL has to have taken notice of what he has accomplished.
The ROl (return on investment) of a former practice squad/special teamer turned Defensive Player of the Year nominee and First-Team All-Pro nod has been nothing short of remarkable. Some might even say he's the rightful winner of the DPOY Award. It's hard to imagine any signing moving forward coming close to topping that level of excellence.
That being said, there's always room for low-risk/high-reward potential when teams bring veterans in through free agency. Philly may have done it again. There's a chance we may see a similar impact by one of the new faces added in 2025.
A.J. Dillon can become the Eagles' next home-run free-agency signing
The Eagles brought in former Green Bay Packers running back A.J. Dillon on a one-year deal. It isn't out of the realm of possibility that will pay off tenfold. Dillon is an absolute bruising 'bowling ball of butcher knives' as they say. He beings a hard-nosed running style that wears on defenses and keeps them up at night. He's perfect for the Eagles.
Dillon has battled injury. That's true. He was also more of a '1b' in Green Bay's backfield-by-committee approach. That will be his role again. This is Saquon Barkley's offense, so Dillon would only be used when the 2024 Offensive Player of the Year needs a blow.
Will Shipley will presumably assume the role filled by Kenneth Gainwell during Nick Sirianni's coaching era. That also makes Dillon's job easier and keeps his legs fresh, probably more so than they have ever been.
And, what a pair of legs he has!
QuadSquad in Philly 🦵@saquon x @ajdillon7 pic.twitter.com/GXjBeZDA7E
— NFL (@NFL) March 12, 2025
Dillon should be able to thrive in his new role. He gives the Eagles a much-needed power back that they haven't in the gap between LeGarrette Blount and Saquon Barkley, unless you include 2018's version of Josh Adams. Dillon is a load, and his inclusion means the Eagles can rest Barkley.
A.J. Dillon should be a handful for defenses. Picture him wearing teams down at the end of games (or the end of the calendar year when it gets cold). And, can you imagine the impact he'd have on the Tush Push/Brotherly Shove (if it isn't banned)?
In a nutshell, Dillon is set up for success playing with this team while playing behind this star running back and running behind this phenomenal offensive line. He's a surefire cheap bet to pop for the Philadelphia Eagles in 2025.
Remember - You heard it here first.