This Week
March 5th is the deadline to place a tender on restricted free agents, of which the Eagles have several. Here’s what we’ve been hearing:
Gone will be TE Alex Smith, CB Ellis Hobbs, and S Sean Jones. These guys are veterans and weren’t big factors for the Eagles this year.
It looks like Leonard Weaver may have a new contract in place before the deadline. Weaver, 28, was an important addition at fullback to the Eagles’ offense.
Guys you should expect to be tendered: G Nick Cole, WR Jason Avant, LB Omar Gaither, LB Chris Gocong, P Sav Rocca, and LB Akeem Jordan.
With every day that passes, it becomes less likely the Eagles will be able to trade Michael Vick before they are forced to pay him the $1.5 million roster bonus on March 5. By all accounts, the Birds’ front office seems resigned to this notion, but will still look to move him after Friday.
Nothing really surprising with Jones and Smith. Too bad Hobbs got hurt when he did because it finally seemed like he was being productive for the team (on special teams at least). He had some really nice kickoff returns right before getting inqured.
What are everyone’s thoughts on the FA that should be available? Peppers is the obvious cash cow this year and he would be an impact player (when he decides to play) for the Birds. What about RBs to “replace” Westbrook? Jets said today Jones will be released. Should the Birds bring in a vet or look at the draft? I think they need to bring in a vet to help McCoy mature and develop. Saw the Cards will release Rolle by Friday as well. Think the Birds should solve their safety problem in FA or the draft?
I hate the offseason but at least Friday will bring some news to read about.
I certainly think Sproles and Taylor are interesting options for the Eagles. But Sproles may get a lot of money, which would be a bad move IMO.
Peppers isn’t happening, mostly because it seems the Redskins are positioning themselves to out-bid everyone. Peppers seems more than happy to go to the highest bidder.