Bleeding Green Nation - All PostsPhiladelphia Eagles rumors, news, analysis, roster updates, depth charts and more.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47571/bleedinggreennation_fave.png2024-03-18T14:52:39-04:00http://www.bleedinggreennation.com/rss/current/2024-03-18T14:52:39-04:002024-03-18T14:52:39-04:00Eagles lose another offensive lineman in free agency
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<p>Jack Driscoll has signed with the Dolphins.</p> <p id="soskEA">The Eagles have already lost Jason Kelce to retirement and Sua Opeta to the <a href="https://www.bucsnation.com/">Buccaneers</a>, and now backup lineman Jack Driscoll is signing with the <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Dolphins</a> in free agency.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">We have signed OL Jack Driscoll.<br><br>Welcome to the 305! ☀️ <a href="https://t.co/9ecm7ONxDh">pic.twitter.com/9ecm7ONxDh</a></p>— Miami Dolphins (@MiamiDolphins) <a href="https://twitter.com/MiamiDolphins/status/1769782582923661321?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 18, 2024</a>
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<p id="c3wa9K">Not that Driscoll was the most impressive back-up the Eagles had, but he was someone that had trained with Jeff Stoutland and had the experience to be moved around the line as needed. When guys like Lane Johnson and Cam Jurgens were sidelined at various times in 2023, Driscoll was someone who often came in for snaps.</p>
<p id="GB4MhA">Still, the Eagles have Tyler Steen to fill that role for them this season, and Steen should take a big developmental leap heading into Year 2. Philly also signed Matt Hennessey last week, who has more in-game experience.</p>
<p id="M6WT69">Driscoll took the field in all 17 games for the Eagles the past two years, and was a fine option for a guy still on his rookie deal. Howie Roseman probably didn’t see the long term benefit of re-signing the Auburn alumnus, and will instead likely add a couple offensive lineman through the upcoming <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a>.</p>
https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2024/3/18/24105085/eagles-lose-another-offensive-lineman-free-agency-jack-driscoll-dolphins-nfl-newsAlexis Chassen2024-03-18T14:45:41-04:002024-03-18T14:45:41-04:00Kenny Pickett calls joining the Eagles a ‘full-circle moment’
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<p>The life-long Eagles fan could not be more excited for this new opportunity. The QB also addressed what happened in Pittsburgh before the trade went down.</p> <p id="jJXA1b">The Eagles and <a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Steelers</a> surprised a lot of people when news dropped that the teams were making a trade that brought QB Kenny Pickett to Philly — including Pickett. Still, as a lifelong Eagles fan, Pickett said he’s extremely excited to be with his new team, and spoke to reporters on Monday about what happened in Pittsburgh, and why this is a great opportunity for a reset.</p>
<p id="OmV5Hq">Pickett called being traded to the Eagles a full-circle moment for him. </p>
<blockquote><p id="qqkRGj">“It’s pretty unbelievable, honestly. I’ve been coming to games at The Linc since I was like five years old. I have great memories of my Dad taking me here, my grandfather, all my family members coming out to the games together and just having great memories. And, the fact that, hopefully, I can help provide some great memories for some other families now coming up. It’s pretty surreal, and a full-circle moment for me.”</p></blockquote>
<p id="YmVClf">He did talk about leaving Pittsburgh and said that he gave everything he had there and loved his teammates and coaches, but ultimately he felt it was time to move on.</p>
<blockquote><p id="OyVEG1">“It just felt like it was time, from the things that transpired, and wanted to get a chance to go somewhere else and continue to grow my career. And the fact that it’s in Philly, the place that I grew up, found the love for the game here, with a great coaching staff, great players — I’m looking forward to meeting all these guys in a couple weeks when everyone gets back into town —, but I think it’s an awesome opportunity here to join this team.”</p></blockquote>
<p id="fE2biY">The quarterback didn’t really get into how things transpired with the Steelers, but said that there was some communication behind closed doors, which led him here. He was asked about reports that he refused to play emergency QB at the end of the 2023 season, Pickett once again said there was more communication behind closed doors, but he was coming off an ankle surgery, and ultimately him not playing was planned the whole week leading up to the game. He went on to emphasize that he’s very happy to be with the Eagles.</p>
<p id="0Q2Myd">Pickett was asked about the role he expects to have in Philly, with Jalen Hurts the clear-cut starter, but the newest Eagle QB said that he just wants to help the team however he can. He has already talked to Hurts, and Tanner McKee, and is excited about the QB room, and started meeting the coaches. </p>
<blockquote><p id="unVE9F">“I think it’s a good reset. Getting a chance to play on this team, in that quarterback room, with a couple of great guys, helping those guys out anyway I can and just be ready if my number’s called somewhere down the road.”</p></blockquote>
<p id="6twaKu">As for how Pickett feels he can fit in the scheme, he explained that watching some of the Eagles 2023 film, he saw some of the RPO stuff and getting Hurts on the move, which are things he can do. He also watched film of OC Kellen Moore’s offense in Los Angeles and in Dallas, and said he can be under center or in the gun.</p>
<p id="idCAkM">Until he’s familiar with the scheme, Pickett couldn’t point to exactly what he’ll need to work on this offseason, but said he’s eager to learn from Jalen Hurts, too. Regardless of scheme, however, he did mention some of his specific strengths.</p>
<blockquote><p id="ilUa4I">“I think my accuracy. I think my ability to play in and out of the pocket, get on the move, extend some plays, just being a leader on a team that guys want to play with, have in the huddle. All things I feel I do pretty well.”</p></blockquote>
<p id="FiR4qk">The QB was asked what he learned going through some adversity, and Pickett said that he wants to get back to having fun, and just put his head down and getting to work.</p>
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https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2024/3/18/24104999/eagles-kenny-pickett-introductory-press-conference-lifelong-fan-steelers-russell-wilson-nfl-newsAlexis Chassen2024-03-18T12:14:02-04:002024-03-18T12:14:02-04:00The Linc - Eagles “set up for a boom-or-bust 2024” season
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<figcaption>Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Philadelphia Eagles news and links for 3/18/24.</p> <p id="2MZSsE"><em>Let’s get to the </em><a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/philadelphia-eagles"><em><strong>Philadelphia Eagles</strong></em></a><em> links ...</em></p>
<p id="KI7R1b"><a href="https://www.theringer.com/nfl/2024/3/18/24104547/free-agency-takeaways-kirk-cousins-dak-prescott-saquon-barkley-justin-fields">The Seven Most Important Takeaways From the First Week of NFL Free Agency - The Ringer</a><br>6. The <a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/">Philadelphia Eagles</a> are set up for a boom-or-bust 2024. It’s been an offseason of change in Philadelphia, and few coaches have more riding on the upcoming season than Nick Sirianni. Following last year’s epic collapse down the stretch, owner Jeffrey Lurie decided to retain Sirianni, but the team brought in new coordinators in Kellen Moore (offense) and Vic Fangio (defense). General manager Howie Roseman has had a busy offseason. The Eagles signed running back Saquon Barkley, edge defender Bryce Huff, safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson, and linebacker Devin White. They also traded for former <a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Steelers</a> first-round pick quarterback Kenny Pickett to back up Jalen Hurts. So where do all those moves leave the Eagles? I see this thing going one of two ways, which I’ll outline in the form of fan fiction. If you are an Eagles fan, read here: Playing in one of the most running back–friendly offenses in the NFL, Barkley totals more than 2,000 yards from scrimmage, and the Eagles look like a juggernaut. There’s just too much for opposing defenses to account for. Some teams try to stop the run, and Hurts torches them with throws to A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith on the outside. Other defenses opt to play with two deep safeties, and Hurts and Barkley run all over them. </p>
<p id="vTLKPA"><a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2024/3/17/24104060/eagles-nfl-mock-draft-2024-simulation-version-8-0#comments">NFL Mock Draft 2024: Eagles 7-round simulation, Version 8.0 - BGN</a><br>Round 1, Pick 22 - Terrion Arnold, Cornerback, Alabama. The Eagles not addressing cornerback (yet) through free agency makes it a great need. With James Bradberry’s step back in 2023, Darius Slay’s age, and the release of Avonte Maddox; the Eagles have a clear need at cornerback. Even with Kelee Ringo waiting in the wings, this is too talented a cornerback class for the Eagles to pass up on. Arnold has the size, speed, and ball hawking skills to be an outside cornerback in the Eagles defense and could contribute sooner than later.</p>
<p id="tmtDmO"><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bgn-radio-386-eagles-free-agency-analysis-defense-version/id1424518763?i=1000649441535">Eagles free agency analysis: Defense version - BGN Radio</a><br>After first breaking down the Eagles’ offensive free agency moves in BGN Radio 385, Brandon Lee Gowton and Jimmy Kempski are back to take stock of the defense. The guys discuss Bryce Huff, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Fletcher Cox, Zack Baun, and much more! Watch this episode! Subscribe to Bleeding Green Nation’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/BleedingGreenNationSBN. Interact with us on social media: @BrandonGowton, @JimmyKempski, @BGN_Radio, @BleedingGreen. Check out Wrong Crowd Beer Company: wrongcrowdbeer.com! (21 or older, please enjoy responsibly). Use discount code BGN15 at RighteousFelon.com for 15% off your order! Same promotion applies at WildRangerPet.com. Buying, selling, or renting a house? Contact Kristin Roach at RoachRealtors.com.</p>
<div id="HNed0t"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6in8U_UTxrE?rel=0" style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute; border: 0;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share;"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="WnBClH"><a href="https://www.phillyvoice.com/eagles-only-2024-mock-draft-version-3-0-post-free-agency-edition-cooper-dejean-kingsley-suamataia-payton-wilson/">Eagles-only 2024 mock draft, version 3.0, post free agency edition - PhillyVoice</a><br>DeJean can play outside corner, slot corner, safety, or linebacker. He was also one of the best punt returners in college football, and he’s an outstanding gunner. He is simply a ridiculous athlete and football player. In 2022, DeJean had 75 tackles, 5 INTs (3 pick-sixes), and 8 pass breakups. DeJean would have been unlikely to be available at 22 had he not broken his leg and missed most of the pre-draft process, but because of the injury he could slide. He is an extraordinarily versatile and talented player who the Eagles can plug in wherever they see fit.</p>
<aside id="vgtniQ"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Bet on the 2024 NFL season at DraftKings Sportsbook","url":"https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/leagues/football/nfl"}]}'></div></aside><p id="ScjqWF"><a href="http://igglesblitz.com/2024/03/an-interesting-trend/">An Interesting Trend - Iggles Blitz</a><br>We don’t know anything for a fact, but it sure looks like the Eagles made a concerted effort to get younger. The only players above the age of 30 are slated to be role players. [...] Cox and Kelce are all-time great Eagles. The others were band-aids trying to help the team win. That didn’t work. Veteran players can have real value, but football is a young man’s game (despite what George Allen might say). The Chiefs won the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> while playing a lot of young players. We saw the Rams get to the playoffs with a young roster. The <a href="https://www.battleredblog.com/">Texans</a> won the AFC South with a young team. The Eagles aren’t in rebuiling mode. They have a strong core. They needed to add talent around that core to get back to being one of the best teams in the league. The Eagles adding players in their prime means the team is looking at a 2 to 3-year window and not just 2024. That’s important. Think about all the young talent already in place. Jalen Hurts, AJ Brown, DeVonta Smith, Landon Dickerson, Jordan Mailata and Jalen Carter are all <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-pro-bowl">Pro Bowl</a> type players and in their mid-20’s. Now think about the guys who are joining them.</p>
<p id="LOJRHX"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/insider/insider/story/_/id/39748725/2024-nfl-free-agency-deals-trades-judging-overreactions-takeaways">Judging overreactions to 2024 NFL free agency deals, trades - ESPN+</a><br>Barkley cleaned up, don’t get me wrong. From what I’m told, the Texans were offering eight figures per year (and no state income tax) and the Eagles had to go to $13 million annually if they wanted him. His deal is a massive win on a level we really haven’t seen for a running back since Christian McCaffrey and Ezekiel Elliott were signing extensions in Carolina and Dallas a few years ago.</p>
<p id="ZOqiNX"><a href="https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/why-didnt-eagles-trade-for-justin-fields-instead-of-kenny-pickett">Why didn’t Eagles trade for Justin Fields instead of Kenny Pickett? - PFT</a><br>On Friday, the Steelers surprised many by trading quarterback Kenny Pickett to the Eagles. On Saturday, the Bears surprised everyone by trading quarterback Justin Fields to the Steelers. In the aftermath of the two moves, here’s a question. Why didn’t the Eagles trade for Fields instead of Pickett? Fields better fits the offense than Pickett, unless the Philly offense will be dramatically changing. Fields would be a better backup to starter Jalen Hurts. Here’s a point Chris Simms raised on Monday’s PFT Live. The Eagles might have been concerned that some in Philly would conclude Fields is better than Hurts.</p>
<p id="74Varr"><a href="https://overthecap.com/evaluation-of-the-2024-compensatory-picks-projection">Evaluation of the 2024 Compensatory Picks Projection - Over The Cap</a><br>Highlighted in yellow, there were 3 comp picks I got the correct team to, but was off by one round due to a minor miss on the round cutoffs. I again overestimated the total number of leaguewide players. I had used 1,965 for the number in the projection, but to make these comp picks line up, the number needed to have been closer to about 1,846. This downgraded two 5th rounders to the 6th round (the Rams for Baker Mayfield going to Tampa Bay, and the Eagles for TJ Edwards going to Chicago) and a 6th rounder to a 7th rounder (the Rams again for Nick Scott going to Cincinnati).</p>
<p id="KSEgQu"><a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/2024/3/18/24104692/dallas-cowboys-dak-prescott-create-4-million-team-salary-cap-space-adding-two-void-years-contract">Cowboys, Dak Prescott create $4M in team salary cap space by adding two void years to contract - Blogging The Boys</a><br>But that this was the chosen route also suggests that there is no extension coming in the immediate future as has been reported for a while. This is admittedly an assumption but if it were imminent then there would be no real reason to execute this specific move right now. Dallas adding the void years that tie (in a literal sense) Prescott to their team through 2028 suggest that they have some potential plans of having him under contract then, but reading into this beyond that right now feels hard to do. 2Perhaps the Dak extension will come later on in the year closer to training camp as has been expected and reported by various people. In the meantime it is good to see the two parties working together.</p>
<p id="4zxJWi"><a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/2024/3/18/24103894/nfl-free-agency-grades-how-analysts-think-the-new-york-giants-have-done">NFL free agency grades: How analysts think the New York Giants have done - Big Blue View</a><br>ESPN gave the Giants an ‘A’ for the Brian Burns trade. The Giants’ defensive line now features Burns, Kayvon Thibodeaux and Dexter Lawrence II. In an NFC East that once again seems wide open, the Giants have a legitimate strength on one side of the ball. Defensive end is arguably the second-most important position in football, and while the Giants gave up draft assets and spent big on Burns, having to pay a good pass-rusher is a good problem to have. We saw the same thing play out with the Bears at last season’s deadline when they dealt for Montez Sweat and immediately gave him a big contract. It’s much better than not having a premier player at the edge position.</p>
<p id="EL6ZpS"><a href="https://www.hogshaven.com/2024/3/18/24104404/flight-of-fancy-could-adam-peters-and-company-pull-off-the-nfl-draft-trade-of-the-century">Flight of Fancy: Could Adam Peters and company pull off the draft trade of the century? - Hogs Haven</a><br>If Adam Peters were to orchestrate a series of trades along these lines, Washington would position itself incredibly for the future, securing: The ability to take a top four quarterback in the draft (JJ McCarthy?). An additional first round pick in 2024 (#23). An additional first round pick in 2025 from the Vikings, who aren’t likely to be very good next year. Yes, the team would lose a second (and perhaps third) round pick this year, but those are easily offset by the addition of the firsts. Could something like this come to fruition? Would it be good for Washington if it did? I’m sure there will be some strong opinions on those questions in the comments.</p>
<p id="RYwME9"><a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nba/2024/3/18/24104721/anthony-black-gradey-dick-nba-jersey-swap-meme">Anthony Black and Gradey Dick gave NBA fans the jersey swap meme they were craving - SB Nation</a><br>The only thing Gradey Dick seems to enjoy more than playing basketball is having the last name “Dick.” On Sunday night he teamed up with Anthony Black of the Magic to prove that it’s not the size of the jersey that matters, but how you use it.</p>
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https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2024/3/18/24104883/eagles-news-philadelphia-set-up-boom-bust-2024-season-saquon-barkley-devin-white-howie-roseman-nflBrandon Lee Gowton2024-03-18T11:50:21-04:002024-03-18T11:50:21-04:00NFL Mock Draft 2024: Eagles 7-round simulation, Version 8.0
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<p id="PXGRBb">The Eagles have been extremely active in free agency through only a few days, adding quality starters like Saquon Barkley, Bryce Huff, CJ Gardner Johnson and high upside role players/backups like Matt Hennessey, Devin White, Zach Baun, and Devante Parker. Their free agency approach definitely clarifies where they could and should go with their upcoming draft picks. Here is how their 2024 class could play out. </p>
<aside id="rZw7rC"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Eagles 2024 free agency roster moves","url":"https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2024/3/11/24095560/eagles-2024-free-agency-roster-moves-signings-trades"}]}'></div></aside><p id="05rvJo"><em>Using the Pro Football Focus Mock Draft Simulator. Only picking for the Eagles and not trading.</em></p>
<h2 id="AtWLBI"><strong>Round 1, Pick 22 - Terrion Arnold, Cornerback, Alabama</strong></h2>
<p id="lWr9Fc">The Eagles not addressing cornerback (yet) through free agency makes it a great need. With James Bradberry’s step back in 2023, Darius Slay’s age, and the release of Avonte Maddox; the Eagles have a clear need at cornerback. Even with Kelee Ringo waiting in the wings, this is too talented a cornerback class for the Eagles to pass up on. Arnold has the size, speed, and ball hawking skills to be an outside cornerback in the Eagles defense and could contribute sooner than later. </p>
<h2 id="5dlkgJ"><strong>Round 2, Pick 50 - Payton Wilson, Linebacker, NC State</strong></h2>
<p id="eDgJDY">Even with the addition of Devin White, the Eagles need to solidify their linebacker group. White is a wildcard and the jury is very, very much still out on Nakobe Dean. Payton Wilson brings a pro-ready skill set with a great blend of instincts and athleticism at the linebacker position. Having Wilson and White’s speed at inside linebacker would be too good to be true. </p>
<h2 id="mIUrsH"><strong>Round 2, Pick 53 - Xavier Worthy, Wide Receiver, Texas </strong></h2>
<p id="QuGs4i">This is a pipe dream for me at this point. But if Xavier Worthy is there in the second round, the Eagles would be crazy to not take a chance on him. Could you imagine defenses trying to account for his 4.21 speed while also trying to contain AJ Brown, DeVonta Smith, Dallas Goedert, Saquon Barkley, and Jalen Hurts??? Scary hours. </p>
<h2 id="p6KF9T"><strong>Round 3, Pick 98 - Kamren Kinchens, Safety, Miami</strong></h2>
<p id="9BHq81">Even with CJ Gardner Johnson back in the fold, the Eagles could draft another safety relatively high and it would make sense. Sydney Brown is coming off a knee injury and Reed Blankenship was banged up all last year. Also, Gardner Johnson did some of his best work as a slot defender in Philadelphia and the Eagles might like him there. Kamren Kinchens would be great in the third round, with a lot of versatility to offer the Eagles in their secondary and high upside to be a quality starter. </p>
<aside id="IYhqxP"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Bet on the 2024 NFL season at DraftKings Sportsbook","url":"https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/leagues/football/nfl"}]}'></div></aside><h2 id="8dFmHq"><strong>Round 5, Pick 161- Javon Foster, Tackle, Missouri </strong></h2>
<p id="AHr48z">It’s very possible things are trending towards the Eagles drafting an offensive lineman high, but they’ll still pick one up even if its not in the first two days. Javon Foster’s size, physicality and experience in the SEC make him a great depth option for the Eagles’ reloading offensive line. </p>
<h2 id="WBZKgu"><strong>Round 5, Pick 171 - Jaheim Bell, Tight End, Florida State </strong></h2>
<p id="uvRqNX">Yeah yeah yeah. I know. I like this pick. I think it makes sense. Bell offers a lot as a pass catcher. Make it happen. </p>
<h2 id="CeYpbD"><strong>Round 5, Pick 172- Kimani Vidal, Running Back, Troy </strong></h2>
<p id="nCTZaN">After the Eagles gave Saquon Barkley, there were rumblings that they still weren’t satisfied with their backfield. Why would they be? Kenneth Gainwell has yet to really stand out as a running back and who knows if Boston Scott comes back for another season. Kimani Vidal has a D’Andre Swift-style skill set with a compact, muscular build but a speedy and shifty running style. He could be a great complement to Saquon Barkley, who no doubt will receive a healthy dose of carries in 2024. </p>
<h2 id="wQjvX9"><strong>Round 6, Pick 210: Jalen Green, Edge, James Madison</strong></h2>
<p id="izr61J">It’s unclear what is going to happen with the Eagles edge rusher group. Haason Reddick and Josh Sweat are still on the team despite rumors swirling about impending trades. If either or both of them are traded, the Eagles will need to add more depth to that group. Jalen Green doesn’t figure as an NFL starter, but he is a speedy pass rusher with great hustle and he racked up 15.5 sacks in only nine games in 2023 before injuring his knee. He would be a great player to take a flier on this late. </p>
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<h2 id="HcKmrs"><strong>PREVIOUS EAGLES MOCK DRAFT SIMULATIONS</strong></h2>
<p id="UE0RKg"><a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2024/1/29/24051732/nfl-mock-draft-2024-eagles-7-round-simulation-jeremiah-trotter-jr-linebacker-clemson-lb?_gl=1*1gyaigc*"><strong>Version 1.0</strong></a></p>
<p id="mO4MBO"><a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2024/2/5/24059941/nfl-mock-draft-2024-eagles-7-round-simulation-version-2-0-philadelphia-jc-latham-linebacker-safety?_gl=1*1gyxkha*"><strong>Version 2.0</strong></a></p>
<p id="XsaxjY"><a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2024/2/13/24068159/eagles-mock-draft-taliese-fuaga-offensive-line-help-seven-round-nfl?_gl=1*1fwrd9i*"><strong>Version 3.0</strong></a></p>
<p id="HZd8VM"><a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2024/2/18/24075034/nfl-mock-draft-2024-eagles-7-round-simulation-version-4-0?_gl=1*10ijdhj*"><strong>Version 4.0</strong></a></p>
<p id="7QFi8d"><a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2024/2/25/24081223/nfl-mock-draft-2024-eagles-7-round-simulation-version-5-0?_gl=1*5zvcbx*"><strong>Version 5.0</strong></a></p>
<p id="OzTYMf"><a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2024/3/4/24087733/nfl-mock-draft-2024-eagles-7-round-simulation-version-6-0?_gl=1*1hee1yj*_ga*NDU3MDY5ODI2LjE2NTU5NTMxMjQ.*_ga_2M5GYNY1YS*MTcwOTk0NDU2MC42ODMuMS4xNzA5OTQ0NTc1LjQ1LjAuMA..&_ga=2.223584603.116385488.1709944559-457069826.1655953124"><strong>Version 6.0</strong></a></p>
<p id="2sI3fH"><a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2024/3/9/24094971/nfl-mock-draft-2024-eagles-7-round-simulation-version-7"><strong>Version 7.0</strong></a></p>
https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2024/3/17/24104060/eagles-nfl-mock-draft-2024-simulation-version-8-0Ben Natan2024-03-17T15:25:42-04:002024-03-17T15:25:42-04:00The Linc - Eagles had interest in Justin Fields before Kenny Pickett trade
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<img alt="Philadelphia Eagles v Chicago Bears" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/GuNd6MGpyZFV8Lybi3ZtiZ6vbKw=/0x0:3691x2461/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73213537/1450145177.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Philadelphia Eagles news and links for 3/17/24.</p> <p id="2MZSsE"><em>Let’s get to the </em><a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/philadelphia-eagles"><em><strong>Philadelphia Eagles</strong></em></a><em> links ...</em></p>
<p id="62XD7M"><a href="https://www.theringer.com/nfl/2024/3/17/24103874/justin-fields-trade-chicago-bears-pittsburgh-steelers-ryan-poles">The Baffling Conclusion to the Justin Fields Trade Saga - The Ringer</a><br>After Cousins, Mayfield, and Wilson found their respective landing spots, the Raiders seemed to be a prime trade candidate for Chicago. Las Vegas reportedly had interest in Fields, but signed Gardner Minshew to a bridge quarterback contract instead. The Eagles also called about Fields, per reports; it didn’t amount to anything, and Philadelphia later traded for Pickett. The <a href="https://www.fieldgulls.com/">Seahawks</a> traded a series of pick swaps in exchange for 2023 Commanders starter Sam Howell. And the Cardinals brought in Ridder by sending wide receiver Rondale Moore to the Falcons.</p>
<p id="IbD0Kc"><a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/justin-fields-trade-fallout-winners-losers-from-blockbuster-qb-deal-between-bears-and-steelers">Justin Fields trade fallout: Winners/losers from blockbuster QB deal between Bears and Steelers - NFL.com</a><br>LOSERS: Kenny Pickett. When he wanted out of Pittsburgh after the <a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Steelers</a> signed Wilson, he was traded to the Eagles — who have a superstar starting quarterback with a lucrative contract, giving Pickett almost no chance to be the starter, barring a serious injury to Jalen Hurts. Pickett’s departure created the opening for Fields to become the Steelers’ heir apparent.</p>
<p id="vrNTuh"><a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2024/3/16/24103428/justin-fields-trade-pittsburgh-steelers-chicago-bears">Justin Fields traded to the Pittsburgh Steelers - SB Nation</a><br>Justin Fields now knows where he will be playing next season. What awaits is whether he will be a starting quarterback again. The Pittsburgh Steelers made another addition at the quarterback position, trading for the former first-round selection. The move comes almost a week after the Steelers signed Russell Wilson in free agency, and a day after the team traded away another former first-round selection in Kenny Pickett. According to ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter, the <a href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/">Chicago Bears</a> are receiving a conditional pick in the 2025 <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a>. As Schefter notes, the pick is a conditional sixth-round pick, that can increase to a fourth-round pick.</p>
<p id="Aux9ol"><a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2024/3/16/24103363/saquon-barkley-signing-mistake-eagles-running-back-philadelphia-giants-nfl-free-agency-news-analysis">Is the Saquon Barkley signing a mistake for the Eagles? - BGN</a><br>The Philadelphia area exploded on Monday once they heard the news former Penn State star Saquon Barkley agreed to a reported three-year, $37.75 million contract with the Eagles. Howie Roseman stepped way out of his comfort zone to acquire the former <a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">New York Giants</a>’ running back, who could get up to $46.75 million, which includes $26 million fully guaranteed when he signed. Now the hovering question looms: Was it worth it? Was it worth it considering the Eagles are porous in their back seven, with multiple needs, which includes safety? Would Giants’ safety Xavier McKinney have filled that more important need, in the neediest area of the field for the Eagles? Instead, McKinney signed with the burgeoning <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Green Bay Packers</a>, while the Eagles made the splashy move in signing a tailback who is a great locker room presence, a stand-up guy, who could easily be questioned that at 27 and six NFL seasons of wear and tear on his body if his best years are behind him?</p>
<p id="P9Tgqv"><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bgn-radio-385-eagles-free-agency-analysis-offense-version/id1424518763?i=1000649427442">Eagles free agency analysis: Offense version - BGN Radio</a><br>It’s been a busy week for the Eagles! Brandon Lee Gowton and Jimmy Kempski analyze the additions of Saquon Barkley, Kenny Pickett, DeVante Parker, and more. Watch this episode! Subscribe to Bleeding Green Nation’s YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/BleedingGreenNationSBN. Interact with us on social media: @BrandonGowton, @JimmyKempski, @BGN_Radio, @BleedingGreen. Check out Wrong Crowd Beer Company: wrongcrowdbeer.com! (21 or older, please enjoy responsibly). Use discount code BGN15 at RighteousFelon.com for 15% off your order! Same promotion applies at WildRangerPet.com. Buying, selling, or renting a house? Contact Kristin Roach at RoachRealtors.com.</p>
<div id="psDPry"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wasT3-OV6sY?rel=0" style="top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute; border: 0;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="accelerometer; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share;"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="Nzzdup"><a href="https://www.nbcsportsphiladelphia.com/nfl/philadelphia-eagles/roobs-eagles-observations-why-parker-white-signings-make-sense/571750/">Roob’s Eagles Observations: Why Parker, White signings make sense - NBCSP</a><br>8. Saquon Barkely had 11 100-yard games in his first 28 NFL games. He has six in his last 48 games. In those first 28 games, he averaged 4.8 yards per carry. In the last 48 he’s averaged 4.0.</p>
<p id="p8457X"><a href="https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/potential-tampering-by-eagles-falcons-is-very-different">Potential tampering by Eagles, Falcons is very different - PFT</a><br>The Eagles landed on the tampering radar screen because Penn State coach James Franklin spoke of the Eagles’ recruiting pitch to former Giants running back Saquon Barkley by saying that Barkley spoke directly to Eagles G.M. Howie Roseman during the 52-hour negotiating period. The Eagles issued a general denial of any suggestion that they speak to players represented by agents during the pre-free agency window for discussing deals with players still under contract with other teams. More importantly, Barkley said during his introductory press conference that he did not hear directly from Roseman during the negotiating window. Of course, Barkley (and any other player or executive who was aware of the issue in advance) would be inclined to deny it, even if it happened. The question becomes whether the NFL will check phone records to see whether Roseman called Barkley directly, or whether he received a call from Barkley. Most teams, however, would be smart enough to not leave such clear digital footprints.</p>
<p id="y3B81q"><a href="https://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/news/matt-hennessy-so-excited-to-be-home">Matt Hennessy: ‘So excited to be home’ - PE.com</a><br>Matt Hennessy had goosebumps when he drove past Lincoln Financial Field on his way to making his signing with the Eagles official. “Philly is like a second home for me,” Hennessy said. The offensive lineman played his college football at Temple University in North Philadelphia. Hennessy is familiar with the friendly confines of Lincoln Financial Field, having played his home games there with Temple. The Owls have made the South Philadelphia stadium their home since 2003. Hennessy and his wife, Toni, met at Temple. The two got married at Philadelphia’s Parkway Central Library in July 2023. Even after getting drafted by the <a href="https://www.thefalcoholic.com/">Atlanta Falcons</a> in 2020, the Hennessys have spent a lot of time in the city while Toni was attending graduate school at Thomas Jefferson University.</p>
<p id="qodjd1"><a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/2024/3/17/24103075/dallas-cowboys-free-agent-tyron-smith-departure-problems-offensive-line-tyler-smith-draft">Tyron Smith departure creates multiple problems along Cowboys offensive line - Blogging The Boys</a><br>Watching Tyron Smith leave the Cowboys is a painful thing for all of us. but if has not been made clear there is a clear argument for doing so given the last few years. But while the move can be survived by the team, it can only really be done with the proper motions and sequences in place around allowing it to happen. So far, the Cowboys have not done that so they have let this major thing happen without a safety net underneath them. Yes, the Cowboys will very likely add to the offensive line early on in the NFL draft, but they are under intense pressure to hit on that pick. That isn’t an argument to have kept Tyron Smith on its own. but to have done enough work throughout free agency to make sure that his departure could be properly survived.</p>
<p id="Tkc1Um"><a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/2024/3/17/24101932/are-the-giants-or-vikings-in-better-position-to-get-a-top-quarterback-prospect">Are the Giants or Vikings in better position to get a top quarterback prospect? - Big Blue View</a><br>There are other factors that come into consideration in deciding which team to trade with. The Giants have more high round trade capital to offer in this year’s draft (picks No. 70, 107) than the Vikings (No. 108, 129), for example, and there are always 2025 draft picks that can enter the equation. Players can be traded, too, if the Giants get into a bidding war with the Vikings. None of that can be assessed by trade value charts, which as shown above indicate that an offer of the top two picks by either team is already eminently fair. There is one advantage, though, that the Giants have over the Vikings as a trade partner - not just the fact that they have a higher first-round pick than Minnesota does, but what that means in this particular draft, and how that meshes with the needs of the potential trade-down partners.</p>
<p id="demV8p"><a href="https://www.hogshaven.com/2024/3/17/24102831/commanders-fans-seem-to-be-buying-on-austin-ekeler-and-selling-on-ricky-stromberg">Commanders fans seem to be buying on Austin Ekeler and selling on Ricky Stromberg - Hogs Haven</a><br>In my mind, the driving force behind signing Ekeler (as opposed to any other back) is his connection to the team’s new offensive running game coordinator, Anthony Lynn. Nearly all of the Commanders’ free agent deals that we heard about this week were based on a connection between player and coach. Even kicker Brandon McManus, in his media session this week, spoke about the 2014 season when he and new special teams coordinator Larry Izzo were together at the NY Giants. Connections can run deep and count for a lot when a new coaching staff takes over.</p>
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https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2024/3/17/24104090/eagles-news-philadelphia-interest-justin-fields-kenny-pickett-trade-steelers-pittsburgh-quarterbackBrandon Lee Gowton2024-03-16T19:48:27-04:002024-03-16T19:48:27-04:00Eagles sign former 49ers linebacker
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<img alt="Super Bowl LVIII - San Francisco 49ers v Kansas City Chiefs" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/WaD5BO-JUCQ4m8FZJ4FSnaMD3t8=/0x0:5495x3663/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73212424/2009227057.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Ryan Kang/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Oren Burks has some defensive experience, but the majority of his career snaps have been on special teams.</p> <p id="D78LeP">The Eagles are adding another linebacker this offseason, with reports that the team is signing Oren Burks, formerly of the <a href="https://www.ninersnation.com/">49ers</a>.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Former 49ers LB Oren Burks is signing a 1-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles worth up to $2.5M, per source. <br>Burks is a special teams standout who started 5 games in 2023 for SF.</p>— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) <a href="https://twitter.com/DMRussini/status/1769126767212552544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2024</a>
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<p id="CCrUkE">Another team-friendly deal, worth <strong>up to</strong> $2.5 million, but the fact that he was such a contributor on special teams makes this signing worth while. The Eagles lost special teams captain LB Shaun Bradley for the 2023 season in the first preseason game, and now that he’s a free agent, Philly needs someone who can fill that role.</p>
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<iframe src="https://www.mockdraftable.com/embed/oren-burks?position=OLB&page=GRAPH" width="480" height="651" frameborder="0" scrolling="no"></iframe>
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<aside id="hTSfzp"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Bet on the 2024 NFL season at DraftKings Sportsbook","url":"https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/leagues/football/nfl"}]}'></div></aside><p id="55Njds">Head coach Nick Sirianni often talks about how valuable it is to have guys in the locker room who have been to big games like conference championships and Super Bowls, and Burks’ experience late in the postseason the past two years is another benefit. </p>
<p id="9cpWop">Burks was a third-round draft pick by the <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Packers</a> in 2018, and played in Green Bay for four years before signing his second contract with San Francisco. He’s always been a special teams guy, but did see a career-high in defensive snaps (326) last season for the 49ers.</p>
<p id="HyMyZi">Because of his role, his stats may not pop out as all that impressive, but that doesn’t mean he can’t be impactful. Throughout his career, he’s accumulated 176 total tackles, 2 pass defended, 2 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries, and 1 interception.</p>
https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2024/3/16/24103473/eagles-sign-former-49ers-linebacker-oren-burks-free-agency-special-teams-roster-nfl-newsAlexis Chassen2024-03-16T16:55:55-04:002024-03-16T16:55:55-04:00Is the Saquon Barkley signing a mistake for the Eagles?
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<img alt="NFL: Philadelphia Eagles-Saquon Barkley Press Conference" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Yz3EYuTu4sa1o1DF4r2nzBWc4DU=/0x0:3872x2581/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73212199/usa_today_22774698.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p id="pHeT2L">The Philadelphia area exploded on Monday once they heard the news former Penn State star Saquon Barkley agreed to a reported three-year, $37.75 million contract with the Eagles. Howie Roseman stepped way out of his comfort zone to acquire the former <a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">New York Giants</a>’ running back, who could get up to $46.75 million, which includes $26 million fully guaranteed when he signed.</p>
<p id="ZMdZez">Now the hovering question looms: <strong>Was it worth it?</strong></p>
<p id="umu2YV">Was it worth it considering the Eagles are porous in their back seven, with multiple needs, which includes safety? Would Giants’ safety Xavier McKinney have filled that more important need, in the neediest area of the field for the Eagles? Instead, McKinney signed with the burgeoning <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Green Bay Packers</a>, while the Eagles made the splashy move in signing a tailback who is a great locker room presence, a stand-up guy, who could easily be questioned that at 27 and six NFL seasons of wear and tear on his body if his best years are behind him?</p>
<p id="TVmabu">In 2020 and 2021, he played a combined 15 games, battling nagging ankle and knee injuries. His explosive first step appeared to sag. He has rushed for over 1,000 yards once in the last four years, gaining 1,312 yards, though, ironically, missed the season finale in January 2023 against the Eagles with a high ankle sprain.</p>
<p id="VRM6yU">The Eagles were willing to let former St. Joseph’s Prep and Georgia star D’Andre Swift go to the <a href="https://www.windycitygridiron.com/">Chicago Bears</a>, after he outgained Barkley last year, 1,049 to 962. Over the last three years, Swift has rushed for 2,208 on 479 carries, averaging 4.60 yards a carry, while in that same time, Barkley rushed for 2,867 on 704 attempts, averaging 4.07 yards a carry. Barkley is a better pass protector, though Swift’s rushing success rate (rush gains of at least 40% of yards required on first down, 60% yards required on second down, and 100% on third and fourth downs denominator by is attempts) far exceeded Barkley, 54.1% success rate to Barkley’s 40.1 % rate.</p>
<p id="Mwdy2h">Barkley is a better running back than Swift. He is bigger. He is also two years older. The Eagles will not hold back Barkley, as they held back Swift.</p>
<p id="teSID7">The Giants had one of the worst offensive lines in the NFL last season, but the Eagles will be entering this season with 40% of their offensive front playing new roles, with Cam Jurgens trying to replace future hall of fame center Jason Kelce, with the possibility of 2023 third-round draft pick Tyler Steen, out of Alabama, being inserted at right guard to replace Jurgens.</p>
<p id="F3DgxU">This was broached before. When <em>New Heights</em> podcast hosted a goodbye to Jason Kelce, JJ Watt told Kelce, “I do not miss lining up on the other side and having you point out exactly what blitz we were running and exactly where the pressure is coming from.”</p>
<p id="hoXldS">Will Jurgens pick up those tendencies like Kelce did?</p>
<p id="maWJl3">Early on, probably not.</p>
<p id="sn6sFQ">The Eagles lost six of their last seven games—with Kelce.</p>
<p id="3AVYFj">It will take time for this new offensive front to coalesce—super coach Jeff Stoutland or no Jeff Stoutland.</p>
<p id="m1nBCz">The Eagles could have utilized that money in far more important areas than running back, and still retained Swift at a reasonable cost (three-year for $24 million/$15.4 million guaranteed). He was not used nowhere near as much as he should have been in 2023, catching 39 passes for 214 yards and a score in earning his first career <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-pro-bowl">Pro Bowl</a> in 2023, while Barkley caught 41 passes for 280 yards and four touchdowns.</p>
<p id="73UVXT">What will make Barkley a benefit is how new offensive coordinator Kellen Moore uses him. Moore likes using play action, and was highly successful with that while the Dallas’ OC. Under Brian Johnson, the Eagles were 27th in the NFL running play action and last in the NFL when it came to Jalen Hurts being under center.</p>
<p id="WC1upQ">Maybe there is a reason for that. Maybe Hurts is not best suited to running play action?</p>
<p id="w2TKaw">We will see this season.</p>
<p id="XNMd9J">The bottom line is this: Eagles’ management seems to have somehow forgot this team lost six of its last seven games and improved this week in an area of strength, while paying marginal attention to a glaring area of weakness (linebacker, safety, cornerback, defensive tackle depth). The 2023 Eagles were built to outscore teams, like it seems Roseman is trying to build the 2024 Eagles.</p>
<p id="XxAxb2">We know how that turned out the last time.</p>
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<p id="jjlUQo"><em><strong>Joseph Santoliquito is a hall of fame, award-winning sportswriter based in the Philadelphia area who has written feature stories for SI.com, ESPN.com, NFL.com, MLB.com, Deadspin and The Philadelphia Inquirer/Daily News. In 2006, he was nominated for an Emmy Award for a special project piece for ESPN.com called “Love at First Beep.” He is most noted for his award-winning ESPN.com feature on high school wrestler A.J. Detwiler in February 2006, which appeared on SportsCenter. In 2015, he was elected president of the Boxing Writers Association of America.</strong></em></p>
https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2024/3/16/24103363/saquon-barkley-signing-mistake-eagles-running-back-philadelphia-giants-nfl-free-agency-news-analysisJosephSantoliquito2024-03-16T13:58:38-04:002024-03-16T13:58:38-04:00The Linc - Kenny Pickett joins troubling list of QBs traded before their third season
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<img alt="Pittsburgh Steelers v Philadelphia Eagles" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/inqYb_yHpF9fYahakAX9RpwG4CM=/0x0:4500x3000/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73211947/1437813179.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Philadelphia Eagles news and links for 3/16/24.</p> <p id="2MZSsE"><em>Let’s get to the </em><a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/philadelphia-eagles"><em><strong>Philadelphia Eagles</strong></em></a><em> links ...</em></p>
<p id="Sy3bTi"><a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/insider/insider/story/_/id/39740111/2024-nfl-offseason-trades-free-agency-draft-pickett-ridder-howell-allen-new-teams-contracts">2024 NFL trades: Why did Pickett, Ridder, Howell, Allen change teams? - ESPN+</a><br>It’s an ignominious end to Pickett’s time in Pittsburgh and an admission that he’s probably not an NFL-caliber quarterback. If you go back through the passers taken since the league moved to the slotted draft system in 2011, the list of players who failed to make it to a third season with the team that drafted them isn’t pretty. Pickett joins Brandon Weeden, Johnny Manziel, Paxton Lynch, Josh Rosen, Dwayne Haskins and Trey Lance as two-and-done with their original franchises. Barring a few preseason passes that had <a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/">Steelers</a> fans excited for Pickett’s future, it’s hard to argue with the decision. He has gone 14-10 as a starter by virtue of protecting the football, but he has been a low-ceiling starter, averaging just 6.3 yards per attempt. His 46.5 QBR ranks 23rd in the league over the past two seasons; the only players below him who were their team’s primary starter both years were Baker Mayfield, Zach Wilson and Russell Wilson, who now seems to have a clear path to Pittsburgh’s starting role.</p>
<p id="kK95ua"><a href="http://igglesblitz.com/2024/03/howie-stays-busy/">Howie Stays Busy - Iggles Blitz</a><br>Let’s talk about why Pickett was available. His first two seasons were disappointing. The question is why things didn’t work out. Some will blame Pickett for simply not playing well. But coaching and a lack of playmakers were real issues. The offensive coordinator was Matt Canada, who was almost universally panned for his scheme and play-calling. The Steelers never had 400 yards of offense in a game under Canada. The week after he was fired, the Steelers put up 421 yards. That isn’t to say that with a different OC Pickett would have been Patrick Mahomes, but he would have been better. Pittsburgh decided not to give Pickett another year. They signed Russell Wilson. This is where things get a bit complicated. The Steelers are using media contacts to push the narrative that Pickett didn’t handle the Wilson signing well at all. They said Pickett didn’t want to compete for the job so that frustrated them and they decided to trade him. Here is another take on what happened. “<a href="https://twitter.com/AKinkhabwala/status/1768721086827438353?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1768721086827438353%7Ctwgr%5E8833185016c39d64650b9d6140b8d141d5a56086%7Ctwcon%5Es1_&ref_url=http%3A%2F%2Figglesblitz.com%2F2024%2F03%2Fhowie-stays-busy%2F">Aditi Kinkhabwala</a>: NOTE: “preferred” is not because Kenny Pickett is running away from competition. He was explicitly told by the Steelers Wilson would start, reneging on the pledge he’d been given that after two years of chaos, he’d finally be put in position to succeed - per sources apprised of convo.”</p>
<p id="emNoMS"><a href="https://www.behindthesteelcurtain.com/2024/3/15/24102346/kenny-picketts-departure-was-needed-and-now-the-steelers-can-move-on-russell-wilson-mike-tomlin">Kenny Pickett’s departure was needed, and now the Steelers can move on - Behind The Steel Curtain</a><br>Cam Heyward spent an hour on facetime with Russell Wilson in an effort to recruit him to the Steelers, according to Wilson himself at his introductory press conference. Other players, including T.J. Watt, Minkah Fitzpatrick, and Pat Freiermuth were all named by Wilson as guys who pushed for him to join them in Pittsburgh. Once Wilson did get signed, Pickett was reportedly not happy. The locker room lost faith and actively recruited his replacement, and it’s not hard to see why. Pickett has 13 touchdown passes in 25 starts- Wilson had 26 touchdown passes last season alone. Pickett also has the lowest touchdown percentage in NFL history amongst all 315 quarterbacks with at least 500 pass attempts, and he is the only one with a touchdown percentage lower than two percent. Once the team got anything close to resembling competent quarterback play, it was evident they couldn’t go back to what Pickett was giving them. And while the scrutiny of former offensive coordinator Matt Canada is more than warranted, Pickett also consistently missed open targets, pirouetted into sacks, and wasn’t progressing nearly enough to show that he had the potential to be an elite franchise quarterback.</p>
<p id="oSlC8x"><a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2024/3/15/24102253/kenny-pickett-steelers-eagles-trade-free-agency">What Kenny Pickett trade means for Eagles, Steelers, and QB himself - SB Nation</a><br>“We are quarterback developers,” said Roseman at the time. “We want to be a quarterback factory.” The trade for Pickett is simply in line with what the Eagles have done at the position over the recent years. Since trading up in 2016 to draft Wentz, the team has continually added at the position. They drafted Clayton Thorson in the fifth round of the 2019 <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a>, Hurts in the second round in 2020, and Tanner McKee in the sixth round a season ago. Those are just the draft picks. They added Foles (2017), Joe Callahan and Christian Hackenberg (2018), Luis Perez and Josh McCown (2019), Joe Flacco, Reid Sinnett, and Nick Mullens (2021), Ian Book (2022), and Marcus Mariota (2023) via free agency, as well as some undrafted free agents such as Carson Strong over the same period. Adding and attempting to develop quarterbacks has been a common practice for the Eagles during Roseman’s tenure, and trading for Pickett is the next spin of that particular roulette wheel.</p>
<p id="MHOLFh"><a href="https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/steelers-continue-to-act-out-of-character-in-trading-kenny-pickett">Steelers continue to act out of character in trading Kenny Pickett - PFT</a><br>For most teams, it’s no big deal. For the Steelers, it’s a break from how they do things. They’re patient. They don’t make sudden movements. They don’t take big risks. They don’t go all-in — in the normal sense or the Jerry Jones nonsense sense. They now are. They’ve admitted that Pickett was a mistake. He did nothing spectacular during his two years and 24 starts. His passer rating was an anemic 78.8. He threw 13 touchdown passes and 13 interceptions. And so the Steelers have stepped aside from their stay-the-course approach and made a bold move. Russ is in. Kenny is out. Mason is gone. They have one quarterback under contract in Wilson. It remains to be seen who they’ll add. (Ryan Tannehill remains available.) For now, we know one thing. The Steelers have flipped their own script on how they do things. It will be interesting to see whether it’s an aberration or the start of a new trend.</p>
<p id="9mBCuE"><a href="https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2024/3/15/24102186/kenny-pickett-trade-eagles-steelers-quarterback-qb-nfl-draft-pick-swap-pitt-philadelphia-philly">Kenny Pickett trade: Eagles acquire Steelers quarterback in draft pick swap - BGN</a><br>Perhaps the Eagles can offer Pickett a better support system to succeed than he had in Pittsburgh. But there’s no small bridge to gap between him being pretty bad to a competent backup. The Eagles clearly seem to believe the 25-year-old still has some untapped potential. The thinking here is that there could have been better ways to handle the backup QB position. Why not keep the draft capital and sign a veteran like Easton Stick? Why not put more faith in Tanner McKee after he flashed in the preseason last year? How’s he going to get better if he doesn’t get a chance to take QB2 reps (QB3 reps in the offseason are few and far between).</p>
<p id="V7Hhe8"><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/at-the-podium-c-j-gardner-johnson-talks-re-joining-the-eagles/id1424518763?i=1000649374404">At the Podium: C.J. Gardner-Johnson talks re-joining the Eagles - BGN Radio</a><br>C.J. Gardner-Johnson speaks with the Philly media about his new mindset returning to the Eagles.</p>
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<p id="BWgry8"><a href="https://www.phillyvoice.com/eagles-have-four-starting-spots-left-figure-outright-guard-wide-receiver-cornerback/">Eagles have four starting spots left to figure out - PhillyVoice</a><br>Wide receiver No. 3: The Eagles signed DeVante Parker in free agency. Parker is 31, and over the last four years he has woeful separation stats. Parker is 6’3, 215, with 4.45 speed, so he’s worth a look in training camp as a lottery ticket, but he is hardly a player who can be penciled in as the No. 3 receiver. The Eagles also have Britain Covey, the team’s primary punt returner, who has little experience in the Eagles’ regular offense. They need to add another receiver.</p>
<p id="bjYdVX"><a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/russell-wilson-can-get-back-on-hall-of-fame-track-in-pittsburgh-plus-five-underrated-free-agent-signings">Russell Wilson can get back on Hall of Fame track in Pittsburgh; plus, five underrated free-agent signings - NFL.com</a><br>Don’t overlook these free-agent signings: After failing to agree on an extension with the Eagles following an impressive 2022 campaign, Gardner-Johnson spent a season in Detroit. Now he returns to Philly to fix a leaky secondary that failed to prevent balls from flying over the top of the defense in 2023. As an aggressive ballhawk with superb instincts, awareness and range, the sixth-year pro gives new Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio a versatile defender to align in the slot or deep half in a split-safety scheme. Gardner-Johnson adds proven playmaking ability to a unit that needs to generate more turnovers in 2024.</p>
<p id="Eqdabk"><a href="https://www.philadelphiaeagles.com/news/eagles-free-agency-haul-5-common-threads">Spadaro: 5 common threads in the Eagles’ free agency haul - PE.com</a><br>4. Coming in with “something to prove.” Hearing Saquon Barkley, a player who has accomplished as much as he has in his six NFL seasons, sitting at the podium talking about proving himself as an Eagle really set the tone for the players who came in and signed their contracts. Over and over, that was one of the themes: Players like Huff and Baun are going to have chances to take the next steps in their careers, and they are embracing that challenge. Hennessy missed all of last season with a knee injury. Gardner-Johnson returns to Philadelphia after his great 2022 campaign and then a 2023 season marred by injury in Detroit, so you know he has a chip on his shoulder. Quarterback Kenny Pickett was a first-round draft pick by Pittsburgh two springs ago, started and won games with the Steelers, and is now a backup to Hurts. None of these players is here to be a savior, and none come without some blemishes from the past. That’s the nature of free agency. They all, every one of them, has the “prove-it” approach, and that should serve the Eagles well.</p>
<p id="6dlgzy"><a href="https://www.bucsnation.com/2024/3/15/24102449/tampa-bay-buccaneers-make-multiple-roster-moves-bryce-hall-john-wolford-nfl-free-agency">Tampa Bay Buccaneers make multiple roster moves - Bucs Nation</a><br>Opeta seems more like the Stinnie replacement and will likely be in a backup role. He also entered the league in 2020 and has been with the Eagles the entire time. He has experience at both tackle and guard, so Opeta quickly becomes a versatile depth piece that can play across the line if needed. He’s started just ten games over his four year career.</p>
<p id="gKzhPX"><a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/2024/3/15/24096318/dallas-cowboys-free-agent-tackle-tyron-smith-sign-1-year-deal-worth-20m-new-york-jets">Cowboys free agent: Tackle Tyron Smith to sign 1-year deal worth up to $20M with Jets - Blogging The Boys</a><br>Unfortunately for Smith, the Cowboys were never able to achieve ultimate team success with him as he was a part of the teams that never reached even the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfc-championship-game">NFC Championship</a> Game. This situation feels very similar to that of DeMarcus Ware when the Cowboys moved on from him a decade (how has it been that long?) ago now. Perhaps Smith will follow a similar path and win a <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a> somewhere else. [...] It is possible that the Cowboys net a compensatory pick for Tyron Smith next season, but there is an important piece of information to know. It is capped with a ceiling of the fifth round because of his tenure in the league.</p>
<p id="DYPEtU"><a href="https://www.dallascowboys.com/news/cowboys-lve-part-ways-following-2023-season">Cowboys, LVE part ways following 2023 season - Dallas Cowboys</a><br>The 2024 season will see the <a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/">Dallas Cowboys</a> take the field with a noticeable absence at linebacker, namely Leighton Vander Esch. The 28-year-old suffered his latest neck injury during the 2023 campaign — one that ended his season. [BLG Note: The Cowboys also cut Michael Gallup.]</p>
<p id="1WgCFL"><a href="https://www.bigblueview.com/2024/3/16/24102521/nfl-free-agency-ny-giants-jack-stoll-chris-manhertz-analysis">Jack Stoll and Chris Manhertz — it’s all about their blocking - Big Blue View</a><br>Neither Stoll or Manhertz has much production as a receiver. The former has more upside than the latter, but both are quality blockers. The videos below are highlight reel blocks of each player. Both are above-average blockers in the NFL. Neither is guaranteed a roster spot, but having competent blockers behind Bellinger was a necessary move by Schoen and the Giants.</p>
<p id="L5be8l"><a href="https://www.hogshaven.com/2024/3/16/24102833/updated-commanders-depth-chart-how-does-the-roster-look-after-trading-away-sam-howell">Updated Commanders depth chart: How does the roster look after trading away Sam Howell? - Hogs Haven</a><br>In a related decision, I moved Andrew Wylie, whom I had been using as a placeholder as the starting left guard, back to right tackle — the position he played for the entirety of the 2023 season when he was healthy. I do this with great reluctance, and I look forward to being able to shift him to a backup role as soon as the team has the personnel to warrant doing so. Hopefully, that will be no later than the draft; I genuinely don’t want to go into the 2024 season with Wylie as the starting right tackle, though I have to concede it as a possibility. </p>
<p id="qZekyy"><a href="https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tgifootball-32-winner-and-losers-in-nfl-free-agency/id1530440308?i=1000649350745">TGIFootball #32: winner and losers in NFL free agency - The SB Nation NFL Show</a><br>RJ Ochoa, Brandon Lee Gowton, and Stephen Serda discuss the biggest winners and losers of NFL free agency.</p>
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https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2024/3/16/24103196/eagles-news-kenny-pickett-joins-troubling-list-quarterbacks-traded-before-third-season-qb-steelersBrandon Lee Gowton