So, I guess the Eagles aren’t done adding players in free agency? Somehow they’ve been able to conjure up enough cap to sign two players Wednesday afternoon, linebacker Eric Wilson and former Eagles running back Jordan Howard.
The more notable signing here is Wilson, who should slot in as a starter from day one in the Eagles defense. The 26-year-old former Vikings linebacker started 15 games last season, accumulating 122 tackles, 8 tackles for loss, 3 sacks, and 3 interceptions.
Under Jonathan Gannon’s new defensive scheme, his linebackers will likely be asked to blitz quite a bit, while also being able to drop back into coverage in cover 2. Wilson demonstrated that he’s effective at both last season, notching 8 pass breakups and 9 QB hits (along with 3 INTs and 3 sacks like I stated earlier).
Wilson’s contract is a one-year deal worth up to $3.25 million, according to NFL insider Mike Garafolo.
The Eagles also agreed to terms with Jordan Howard, who finished his 2020 season with the team. Believe it or not, Howard is still just 26 years old, and he didn’t have a huge workload last season — recording just 35 carries all season.
The team may still look to the draft to add another developmental back to this group, but anything ahead of the sixth round would be a bit surprising at this point. Howard is the kind of change-of-pace back the team needs behind Sanders and Scott, so I can’t complain about this acquisition.
All in all, the Eagles have now added five players through free agency this year, which is more than I think anyone expected. At least two of them (Anthony Harris and Wilson) should start. For as dire as the cap situation was heading into this offseason, Roseman has done a pretty good job filling needs and adding depth.
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