As the Philadelphia Eagles prepare for the start of free agency next week, they cut a popular player on Wednesday. Although the Eagles need to address their secondary this offseason, it didn’t stop them from releasing a former starter.
Philadelphia Eagles News Today
Wednesday was an interesting day for the greatest tight end in Eagles history, Zach Ertz. After flirting with a return to Philadelphia last season, Ertz signed with an NFC East rival. All of that and more in today’s Eagles news!
Eagles To Release CB Avonte Maddox, but Is a Return Still a Possibility in Free Agency?
Despite moving on from Avonte Maddox before the start of free agency, multiple reports mentioned a potential return to Philadelphia. Although he has struggled to stay on the field, Maddox is a beloved player in the Eagles’ locker room.
Due to his expected salary cap hit of $9.6 million, it just wasn’t feasible for Maddox to return at that price. Now he will be allowed to test free agency and see what is out there on the open market. If Maddox is unable to find a new team, Philadelphia would likely be open to re-signing him to a much more cap-friendly deal.
READ MORE: Could Avonte Maddox Return to Philadelphia?
Eagles Legend Zach Ertz Agrees to Free Agent Deal With Washington Commanders
Despite many believing Ertz would rejoin the Eagles last season, it never happened. Ertz eventually signed with the Detroit Lions practice squad during the postseason and failed to make much of an impact in the Motor City.
Due to his practice squad status, Ertz’s contract expired after Detroit’s season, allowing him to sign a deal with the Washington Commanders ahead of the start of free agency on Wednesday.
CONTINUE READING: Zach Ertz Joins NFC East Rival
Jason Kelce Pays Heartwarming Tribute to Eagles Trainer Battling Cancer
Just as Eagles fans were beginning to recover from Jason Kelce’s tearful retirement speech, another emotional moment was shared on Wednesday. Pro Football Network’s Nick Faria discussed Kelce’s heartwarming tribute to his former trainer.
Eagles associate athletic trainer Joe O’Pella has been with the team since 2008 and built a strong relationship with Kelce in Philadelphia. Before announcing his retirement, Kelce found a unique way to show his love and appreciation for O’Pella during his speech.
KEEP READING: Jason Kelce’s Emotional Tribute to Former Trainer
Eagles Free Agency Predictions: Top Linebacker Targets Include Patrick Queen, Devin White
After dealing with a messy situation at linebacker last season, Eagles general manager Howie Roseman might swing for the fences in free agency. Luckily for Philadelphia, there are plenty of intriguing linebackers set to be available in free agency next week.
Faria identified the top free-agent linebacker targets for Philadelphia on Wednesday. Roseman has shown the willingness to overcompensate at a position when a previous plan has failed there. Will he do exactly that with linebacker this offseason?
READ MORE: Potential Free Agent LB Targets for Philadelphia
Dallas Robinson’s 2024 NFL Mock Draft: Caleb Williams, Drake Maye Lead 6 First-Round QBs
As the Eagles continue to release players in their secondary, it’s clear that they’ll need to address that weakness in the 2024 NFL Draft. Pro Football Network’s Dallas Robinson has Philadelphia doing exactly that with the 22nd overall pick in his latest mock draft.
The cornerback group in this year’s draft class is considered strong, with several players expected to be selected in the first round. Roseman has shown the willingness to trade up for a player that he likes in the first round, but Robinson has the Eagles landing a top cornerback while remaining at their current spot.
CONTINUE READING: Pro Football Network’s Latest Mock Draft
Miss football? The 2024 NFL Draft is almost here, boss. Pro Football Network has you covered with everything from team draft needs to the Top 100 prospects available. Plus, fire up PFN’s Mock Draft Simulator to put yourself in the general manager’s seat and make all the calls!