The theme of the season so far for the Eagles is to retain and take care of their own players. DeSean Jackson was kind of the first when he got the franchise tag. Todd Herremans was the first to voluntarily re-up, signing a 3 year extension earlier today and now Trent Cole has agreed to a new deal as well that will keep an Eagle through 2017. He was previously signed through the 2013 season.
"Trent plays the game with a level of tenacity that's hard to replicate," said Andy Reid. "He's one of the premier DEs in the league. We have always said that when you watch the tape, it's hard to tell the difference between his first play and his last play. And as good as he is rushing the passer, he is equally as good against the run. His energy is contagious on the field."
The 29 year old Cole has been to two Pro Bowls and amassed 68 sacks for the Eagles since being taken in the 5th round of the 2005 draft. He's had double digit sacks in 4 of the past 5 seasons and last year combined with Jason Babin to help the Eagles lead the NFL in sacks with 50.
Todd Herremans spoke at the NovaCare complex today said "taking care of their own" is a priority for Eagles GM Howie Roseman.
"The Eagles have been known for a while as a team that doesn’t take care of their draft picks and pays everyone else’s as picks and players," said Herremans. "I think they’re trying to change that stigma that they have. Howie’s very concentrated on taking care of their own and wanting players to be Eagles their entire career."
The next two most obviously candidates for a new deal are DeSean Jackson & LeSean McCoy. Among the free agents, the team will reportedly look to bring back LG Evan Mathis and DT Derek Landri.