DeSean Jackson - Replacement

Lets assume for arguments sake that the Eagles do not franchise DeSean Jackson. Whatever your opinion of him is, it is hard to argue that he is worth $9,500,000 a season. Lets also assume we agree that DeSean Jackson is a field stretcher; he is someone that can demand double coverage and stretch the field, but is not someone you draw up a route for on 3rd and 17 ala Welker, Fitzgerald, Terrell Owens and Calvin Johnson. That means the criteria for the Eagles is a speedster while a bonus would be route running, hands,and size.

When it comes to finding a replacement for Jackson the Eagles may believe Riley Cooper is their man. He runs a 4.48 forty and has shown that he can run the sideline. The Eagles may also go after a Torrey Smith type player that runs a 4.4 forty. History tells us that a speedster can be drafted in the third to fifth round, with route running, hands, and size factors that will make a player go higher.

Another option is to go after the best field stretcher in the business: Mike Wallace. The Steelers are currently 10 million over the cap and franchising Wallace will cost too much (9.5 million) while they want to restructure contracts and make cuts, its hard to believe that they can come up with 20 million. The Steelers will likely tender Wallace with a first round draft pick. Many articles have pointed out that a roster bonus could not be matched by the Steelers due to cap issues. Wallace may take a below market offer with a significant up front bonus to financially ensure his future. Assuming Jackson and Wallace had identical five year contracts, would you trade a first rounder and Jackson for Wallace?