(Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons)
The Eagles started this week off with a bang. On Monday morning, they reached a deal with Malik Jackson to sure up their interior defensive line. Later in the day, they made the trade to bring Desean Jackson back to the Eagles. It was just as I expected. I expected the Eagles to come in and make a splash right away. What I didn’t expect was the rest of the week would be pretty quiet.
Besides restructuring the deals of Chris Long and Nigel Bradham to open some cap space, not much has gone on. They signed former Steelers linebacker Lj Fort. While Fort should provide depth and contribute on special teams, the Eagles won’t be able to rely on Fort as an every down linebacker. As it stands, the Eagles have yet to replace Jordan Hicks at linebacker. It is still not clear if Ronald Darby is staying or going. There is also still a need at running back.
I don’t want to undermine what the Eagles did earlier in the week. Malik and Desean Jackson were both big additions to defense and offense. However, the off-season just feels a bit underwhelming so far. After the fast start, I think we all expected the Eagles to keep their foot on the gas and continue adding more talent. While it may be a little disappointing, there is still plenty of time between now and the draft. Speaking of the draft, the Eagles also have the 25th, 53rd, and 57th picks in the draft. They should be able to fill some holes with the three picks in the top 60 as well.
There is a lot of time until opening day. Howie has proven he is capable of putting together a championship roster. The Eagles can make a splash move at any time. So if you were like me and have been feeling a tad discouraged since Monday, it will be ok. It’s alright to feel that way. Just know that there is plenty of time to fill the gaps on the roster.