Breaking down Eagles' top needs and trade options as NFL's deadline looms

The Philadelphia Eagles are approaching the 2024 NFL trade deadline with several areas to address and decisions to make. With the deadline set for Tuesday, Nov. 5, at 4 p.m. ET, general manager Howie Roseman will look to bolster the roster while keeping future assets in mind.

While acquiring a star player without sacrificing early-round draft capital would be ideal, Roseman will have to maneuver within the team's $11.2 million cap space.

The Eagles have a single pick in each of the first four rounds and three fifth-round picks for the 2025 NFL Draft, but lack selections in Rounds 6 and 7. Roseman’s history as a buyer at the deadline suggests Philadelphia will likely be active again this year.

The Eagles' 3 biggest position needs ahead of the deadline

1. Edge-rusher

Despite recent improvements—13 sacks over the past two games—the Eagles may still look to add an elite pass-rusher.

Josh Sweat, Nolan Smith, and Jalen Carter have led the charge recently, but depth remains a concern as the season wears on. If a high-impact player like Myles Garrett or Maxx Crosby somehow becomes available, Roseman should consider paying a premium.

2. Wide Receiver

The Eagles could use another reliable receiving option, especially considering Jahan Dotson’s slow start and lingering injuries to A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith.

The WR3 position has struggled, with players outside of Brown and Smith combining for just 114 yards this season. Most recently, the Eagles released fifth-year Parris Campbell.

It's also worth noting that the Birds just drafted two rookies at the receiver position in Johnny Wilson and Anias Smith. Looking for a low-cost option on the market could help fill the gap here.

3. Linebacker

Zack Baun has been a solid addition, but Devin White's signing did not pan out at all as intitally expected, and Nakobe Dean has been inconsistent—mostly with tackling.

With limited depth behind Dean, bringing in a dependable linebacker could provide stability for the playoff push.

The Eagles could target a veteran who can contribute immediately, especially given their struggles defending short passes.

Also read: Reasons for renewed optimism (and one growing concern)

Who are some potential trade targets?

Kendrick Bourne, WR, Patriots: Bourne has been a solid depth receiver throughout his career, and the Eagles could acquire him at a low cost to add a versatile weapon for Jalen Hurts.

Deion Jones, LB, Panthers: Jones is an experienced linebacker who can contribute immediately, bringing speed and tackling prowess to a thin Eagles linebacker unit.

Josh Uche, EDGE, Patriots: Uche could be an intriguing edge-rushing addition if New England looks to sell. He’s had success as a situational pass rusher and could bolster the Eagles' rotation.

Who are some potential sell targets?

Eli Ricks, CB: With a deep cornerback group, the Eagles might consider trading Ricks if the right offer emerges. Ricks has shown promise but remains buried on the depth chart.

Avonte Maddox, CB: On the other end of this positional group is a seven-year veteran who has been a starter for years; however, he has recently lost the role to rookie Cooper DeJean who has taken over nickel duties.

With several current Eagles players potentially falling out of favor, they might explore selling to create cap space or acquire draft assets for the 2025 Draft.

Also read: The reasons Saquon Barkley could win NFL Offensive Player of the Year

What will [the mastermind] Howie Roseman do?

Roseman has a history of aggressive deadline deals but has also made questionable trades that haven't yielded positive results.

Past acquisitions of players like Robert Quinn, Genard Avery, and Golden Tate didn’t deliver the expected impact, while trades for Jay Ajayi and Kevin Byard were more successful.

Given the Eagles' current position in the NFC East and their aspirations for a deep playoff run, Roseman is likely to be a buyer, targeting depth and possibly a game-changing addition if one becomes available.

Final thoughts with under two weeks to go before the deadline

As the Eagles prepare for the upcoming trade deadline, fans should expect Howie Roseman to explore every option to strengthen the team.

Whether it's bolstering the pass rush, adding depth at receiver or linebacker, or even surprising with a bold move, the Eagles have a chance to fortify their roster for a second-half surge this season.

Stay tuned for updates as the Eagles gear up for a potentially busy trade deadline.