The Philadelphia Eagles’ implosion this season will result in changes throughout the organisation. The Eagles will have a fascinating summer, with coaching staff changes anticipated. However, after that is resolved, the Eagles have 20 upcoming free agents who must be re-signed or released. Excluding Jason Kelce and Fletcher Cox, who have both hinted at retirement this offseason, these are the Eagles free agents that should be re-signed and moved on from.
Driscoll is the top player the Eagles should look to re-sign this offseason. While Driscoll hasn’t been the Eagles’ chosen starter, he’s been an extremely dependable player. He is the sixth offensive lineman, with experience at both offensive tackle and guard. Depending on how confident the Eagles are in 2023 third-round pick Tyler Steen, Driscoll might compete for the starting guard position if Kelce retires. Furthermore, Eagles lineman Lane Johnson has a lengthy injury history, and the team should aim to maintain depth on the offensive line with Driscoll.
Brandon Graham, DE.
Graham will turn 36 this offseason, and the Eagles will want to give their 2023 first-round selection, Nolan Smith, more playing time than they had this season. Graham was still effective in 2023, leading the squad in pressures per PFF. Graham also performed admirably against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the playoff loss, recording a sack and three tackles for loss. Graham can still contribute significantly to the Eagles’ defensive line. His most valuable asset will be the leadership and experience he gives to Philadelphia’s youthful defensive core. He’s still good on the field, and he’s excellent in the locker room. He should have a final tour with the Eagles in 2024.
Jack Stoll, TE.
Stoll is another source of consistent depth that the Eagles may miss if he leaves. While Stoll is not a strong receiving threat, he has a significant impact in the run game. He’s an excellent blocker who would typically work well with the Eagles’ offensive line and downhill running attack. While it wasn’t obvious this year, hiring a new offensive coordinator might be extremely beneficial to him. Stoll possesses athleticism, and while it is unrealistic to expect him to become a dominant receiving threat this year, he might develop with a new play-caller. Stoll, however, continues to add value in two tight-end formations as well as goal-line packages where the Eagles want to play downhill.
Swift did not play poorly this season and was frequently a bright spot in the Eagles’ dismal offence. He enjoyed a great year behind the Eagles’ offensive line, reaching 1000 yards while missing only one game this season. Swift is a talented player, but the Eagles have two other possibilities that could be more appealing. One option is to pursue Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry, which would be a significant upgrade. Second, on the second day of the 2024 NFL Draft, select a running back. The second option may be riskier, but it will keep the Eagles young and inexpensive at the position.With potential extensions coming up for Devonta Smith, Landon Dickerson, and others, it may be the best option.
Bradley Roby, CB.
Roby is an NFL veteran who was signed off the Eagles’ practice squad earlier this season. He was signed to replace the injured Avonte Maddox as the starting slot corner. However, he struggled in the slot position and finally lost playing time to seventh-round rookie Eli Ricks. With a potentially healthy Maddox in the future, there is no genuine place for Roby to contribute. The Eagles need to improve at cornerback this offseason, and Roby isn’t the answer.
Quez Watkins and Olamide Zaccheaus, wide receivers
This offseason, the Eagles should attempt to move both Watkins and Zaccheaus. Neither could find their footing in the struggling offence, with both receiving fewer than 200 yards. Furthermore, neither fit the mould of what the Eagles require or should look for in a third receiver. The team should search for a route runner of reasonable size to work the underside of defences. They require a dependable option for Jalen Hurts to turn to in third and short situations. They should break relations with both and look for another receiver in free agency to fill the slot receiving job.
