Oftentimes, NFL dynasties are built behind the scenes. The decisions made by general managers can dictate a franchise's success. Philadelphia Eagles general manager Howie Roseman could be the greatest example. His salary cap creativity and calculated decisions have helped build the Eagles into one of the most talented teams in football.
But this offseason, he faces a decision with no clear answer. Veteran safety Reed Blankenship is set to become a free agent, and he could earn a significant increase in pay. The 27-year-old has been reliable for the Eagles, but he may be too expensive to keep around.
Roseman's decision could play a major role in shaping Philadelphia's defense moving forward.
Eagles staring down an impossible Reed Blankenship decision entering free agency
Historically, the Eagles haven't tended to offer big contracts to players at non-premium positions. They're often willing to move on from linebackers and safeties, even if those players have been valuable during their time with the team. In the calculus of roster building, an expensive deal for a safety just doesn't seem to be worth making for the Eagles.
Blankenship might be a different story. The veteran defensive back has quietly been a reliable starter for the Eagles in each of the last three seasons. His eight interceptions since 2023 prove how much of an impact he makes for this team. As his rookie contract expires, Roseman is faced with the difficult decision of whether to keep him or let him leave.
On one hand, Philadelphia's current lack of security at the safety position could lead the team to re-sign him. Outside of second-round pick Andrew Mukuba, the Eagles don't have many long-term answers at safety. Bringing Blankenship back could let them focus on other needs in free agency and the draft.
But he may be too expensive to re-sign. Spotrac estimates Blankenship's market value will be around $7.1 million per year in free agency. That's double the value of his current deal. Instead of dishing out a big pay raise to the veteran, the Eagles could look to sign a different safety in free agency. Players like Andre Cisco, Alohi Gilman, and Kyle Dugger could be available at a cheaper rate.
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History suggests that Roseman will move on from Blankenship in free agency. But the veteran safety's impact might just be great enough for the Eagles to keep him around for the 2026 season.