The Philadelphia Eagles could be both buyers and sellers by moving expiring contracts at the trade deadline, filling holes where they lack quality depth due to injuries, and start bargain-shopping for players they may have long been interested in.
Rather than making a splash for a pricey veteran, Roseman is likely looking for players with upside, manageable contracts, and players with a chip on their shoulders who have something to prove.
Here are five players the Eagles should consider pursuing.
JPJ is an intriguing option for a Philadelphia line that has struggled, needs youth, and is looking to build a long-term core. Jackson has experience at both center and guard, and that type of versatility is attractive to the Eagles. At just 23 years old, JPJ has plenty of time to develop into a quality starter, and Philly can give him the opportunity he needs. Howie Roseman could be looking to acquire a young offensive lineman before his value increases, and if so, JPJ is a great target.
Stewart is one of the most fascinating buy-low opportunities available. The former first-round pick has struggled in Cincinnati and has fallen out of their rotation. Philadelphia is in need of a weapon on the edge, and Shemar could be a top target available for the Birds.
Stewart has the physical tools; Philadelphia has multiple injuries affecting its defensive front, and a change of scenery could help him reach his potential while giving the Eagles a talent to invest in at a reasonable cost on a rookie contract.
Reid would bring leadership and experience to the safety position, both traits that would benefit their secondary. The Eagles have tried to navigate multiple changes at the position, with Blankenship leaving and Epps and others getting injured.
While he wouldn't provide a long-term answer, he brings a lot of knowledge to share with the younger player, and he would be a dependable player in the defensive backfield who could stabilize the churn Philly has had, at least for the remainder of the season.
Justin is not on an expiring contract, and that could make this acquisition more difficult.
The Eagles have had a rotating door at running back this season due to injuries and could use a capable back to lessen Saquon Barkley's workload.
Wilson is playing on a one-year contract and has rushed for 403 yards and three touchdowns this season, and his physical running style could complement Barkley.
If Philadelphia can acquire him without giving up significant draft capital, it’s worth exploring, but he could fetch more than Howie is willing to pay. Seattle is reportedly trying to use him to lure a big deal.
Wright is an interesting reclamation project who could provide some much-needed cornerback depth.
After recording five interceptions with Chicago last season, Wright signed with the Jets but has struggled to find playing time. He’s reportedly frustrated with his current role, potentially opening the door for a change of scenery. He hasn’t formally requested a trade but has reportedly shared his feelings with the organization.
The Eagles could use another option in their secondary, particularly if they decide to trade Riq Woolen at cornerback. Wright is still relatively young and has shown that he can make plays on the football. A late-round pick could be enough to make this an interesting possibility.
It might seem odd to deal a corner and add another, but the NFL is all about who fits into your schemes, and the Eagles may believe that Wright does.
Roseman doesn’t necessarily need to choose between buying and selling. The Eagles can move players who aren’t part of their long-term plans while simultaneously looking for opportunities to improve the roster.
It would be surprising to see Philadelphia surrendering valuable draft capital for short-term rentals, especially given where the team currently stands, but acquiring young players who need a fresh start and who have untapped potential or could fill an immediate need is a different story.
It will be interesting to see how creative Howie will be at the deadline if they choose to make some moves.
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