The Philadelphia Eagles will no doubt chase an established cornerback in free agency come March, but why stop there? One would certainly help plug an enormous hole in the Birds’ secondary, but if that’s all the organization does this offseason, it’s only a matter of time before the defensive backfield springs another leak.
In addition to the immediate void left by Bradley Fletcher’s impending departure—mercifully, he’s a free agent—the Eagles only have one corner under contract beyond 2015. That could be problematic.
Cary Williams has one year remaining, but he is 30 and a potential cap casualty this offseason. Brandon Boykin is on the last season of his rookie deal and perhaps unlikely to reach an extension if this coaching staff doesn’t give him an opportunity to start. Nolan Carroll is also entering his final year, and while a capable reserve, he did not look like a solution during his Week 17 audition.
That leaves only 2014 fourth-round pick Jaylen Watkins, who wasn’t even on the field for a defensive snap until the regular-season finale, so clearly the Eagles can’t count on him.
Whether Philadelphia adds a free-agent corner or not, one isn’t nearly enough. The organization has no choice but to extend its search to the draft. Fortunately, there should be plenty of options, especially early.
from Bleacher Report http://ift.tt/1CccvZ8
via IFTTT February 09, 2015 at 10:23PM
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