2015 NFL free agency begins at 4 PM EST today, Tuesday, March 10. It's an exciting time and there's guaranteed to be plenty of action. The Eagles have already made a few unofficial signings, but they're entering the new league year with a a number of positions to address. Here's a look at where things standings heading into what figures to be a very busy day.
Roster holes
The Eagles need a new starting safety, a new starting cornerback to pair across from Byron Maxwell, a new offensive guard, a new wide receiver, and, now that Frank Gore has reconsidered his contract with Philadelphia, a new running back. That's a lot.
Eagles will be big spenders, which hints towards their QB plan (?)
The Eagles have already begun to spend, but don't expect them to stop. As I just said, they have a lot of holes to fill.
This potential spending spree seems to hint that the Eagles don't plan on having a big quarterback contract on the books any time soon. As pointed out by Ryan Van Bibber:
"All indications are that the Eagles aren't done spending money either. That makes you wonder if this shopping spree isn't fueled in part by the knowledge that they plan on having a rookie quarterback on top of the depth chart and his scaled salary on the books for the next three seasons or more."
Frank Gore's indecision - [Story]
Gore has every right to pull out of his deal with the Eagles since contracts can't become official during the NFL's legal tampering period. Still, this is a bad look for both sides. Why would Gore tell people he was going to Philadelphia only to change his mind? Why did he ever need to make the commitment if he was unsure? Some may argue it's a blessing in disguise that the Eagles might not be signing the 32-year-old running back now, but the rest of the running back market isn't overly thrilling.
It would be pretty awkward if Gore ended up deciding he does want to join the Eagles after all.
Brandon Graham is back - [Story]
The Eagles former first round pick is staying in Philadelphia. This is good news for the Eagles because he's been such a productive pass rusher for them off the bench. It's also good for them because now they don't have to face him twice a year on the Giants.
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Graham's had such a weird career. He's had a lot of doubters (bust, not a scheme fit. etc) but he's kept his head down and worked hard to earn his new opportunity. It'll be interesting to see how he plays in a starting role at outside linebacker. He's been effective in limited snaps. Will that production carry over with more playing time?
Marcus Smith II's role becomes a little more clear
Speaking of disappointing first round picks, the return of Graham means Marcus Smith will be on the bench yet again in 2015. He should get some playing time this year, however. I expect him to play Graham's former role: about 30% of the team's defensive snaps per game. I still think Smith can take over for Barwin one day if he develops, but he has a long, long way to go before that can happen. Plus Barwin isn't headed anywhere any time soon.
Nick Foles trade rumors - [Story]
It's far from official, but all the speculation points to Foles not returning in 2015. If he's not in the Eagles long-term plans anyway, Philadelphia should really look to move him since he's entering the last year of his rookie deal.
New safety? - [Story]
The Eagles are reportedly interested in Marcus Gilchrist. He has the versatility the Eagles like but he's far from a stellar option.