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The trading/free agent signing period is fast approaching, so the Eagles front office will have to decide who they plan to pursue come March 5th. Over the next few weeks at BGN, we will be taking a position-by-position look at who we could see in an Eagles uniform come training camp. Today's position? Middle linebackers.
The return of Stewart Bradley this summer has the potential to breathe life into the Eagles' dying middle linebacker position. However, with Jeremiah Trotter and Omar Gaither likely headed for free agency and the young Joe Mays still learning the ropes, Philadelphia has every reason to dip into the pool of available middle linebackers. Here are a few that might help:
Larry Foote (UFA): Word on the street is that the Lions want to extend the 29 year old Foote's one-year contract, but Foote wants a lengthy extension that Detroit probably won't be willing to offer. However, if Foote is willing to take a role as a backup/mentor, he could find a home in Philadelphia. There's no guarantee that Stewart Bradley will be 100% come week one, and Foote would be a suitable option to step in and hold his place at starter. He is a proven producer who has led the Steelers defense to two Super Bowl wins.
Vinny Ciurciu (UFA): Although not a starter by any means, Ciurciu is a quality special teams contributor with a high motor. In his stints with the Lions, Vikings, and Panthers, Ciurciu was always around the ball, often ranking on or near the top in special teams tackle totals. He has also seen reps as an outside linebacker and a halfback/fullback, demonstrating a great deal of versatility. If the Lions are willing to part with the 29 year old Circiu, he could be worth the Eagles giving a look.
Gary Brackett (UFA): Should the Eagles decide they need a long-term replacement at middle linebacker, the 29 year old Brackett could be a great option. He is a hard "downhill" runner who is great at making plays at the line of scrimmage. He can also cover very well in zone defenses and has nabbed 11 career INTs. The Colts have already decided not to place the franchise tag on him, but still seem determined to have Brackett retire in blue and white. If the deal falls through though, the Eagles have a great opportunity to swoop in.
Other Available Free Agents:
- DeMeco Ryans (RFA)
- Barrett Ruud (RFA)
- Kirk Morrison (RFA)
- D'Qwell Jackson (RFA)
- Antonio Pierce (UFA)
- Paris Lenon (UFA)
- Stephen Tulloch (RFA)
- Corey Mays (RFA)
- Matt Wilhelm (UFA)
- Tim Dobbins (RFA)
- Ryan Fowler (RFA)
- Monty Beisel (UFA)
- Nick Greisen (UFA)
- Chase Blackburn (RFA)
- Abdul Hodge (RFA)
- Rod Wilson (RFA)
- Josh Stamer (UFA)
In the next installment, we will be taking a look at safties. Feel free to leave any suggestions on who to examine in the comments section. For more information on unrestricted vs. restricted free agents in a potentially uncapped year, check out this great article over at Mocking The Draft.
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