The Philadelphia Eagles currently sit on top of the NFC East and should be expected to continue that into the playoffs. While the Eagles are expected to be roughly $60 million over the cap in 2021, could they still potentially be buyers at the deadline? Let’s explore some options on what makes sense for the team.
“I believe the [Eagles] will be more ‘sellers’ than ‘buyers’ at the deadline.”
–@AdamSchefter with @975Mornings
— Marc Farzetta (@MarcFarzetta) October 21, 2020
Sellers
DE Brandon Graham: Considering that Graham turns 33 years old during 2021 when he is set to make$18 million, his value could never be higher. Graham is a defensive staple and fan favorite but Howie has his back against the wall.
WR Alshon Jeffery: This one is the easiest and doesn’t need explained. If the Eagles can make something happen, they will.
DT Fletcher Cox: Cox will be 30 this year and will count for over $20 million of the cap next year. I’m not campaigning for this move, but big moves are going to be made to save the cap for next season. If the front office believes Cox is on the decline and can get a 2nd round pick in return, they could make the move.
Zach Ertz’s name was buzzing as trade market before ankle injury. Multiple league sources expected Eagles to try to deal him. Now probably moot point as he heads to IR. pic.twitter.com/dY0L0HPwZB
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) October 22, 2020
Buyers
WR Curtis Samuel: Samuel is only 24 years old and hasn’t suffered an injury since 2017. After acquiring Robby Anderson, Samuel has seen a massive decrease in targets with the Panthers. The Eagles need help everywhere, including wide receiver. Samuel could add immediate play-making ability to a very predictable Eagles offense.
LB Denzel Perryman: Perryman is on the final year of a restructured deal that includes incentives for him to reach his original $6 million. He earned an 81.8 Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade last season, which would let Eagles fans see a vast improvement from Nathan Gerry on Sunday.
S Bradley McDougald: McDougald is in the final year of his deal, and he would only cost the Eagles just north of $2 million. Jim Schwartz desperately needs a starting-caliber safety for his defense.
WR Dante Pettis: The 49ers have gotten much needed help at the receiver position from Kendrick Bourne and Brandon Aiyuk. Pettis hasn’t gotten the full opportunities to succeed in the Bay Area, but a new team could be what he needs.
With many conflicting reports across the league about what the team is looking to do, the Eagles are desperate and need to make something happen. The NFL trade deadline is Tuesday, Nov. 3, which is also Election Day.
