2017 Free Agency Preview: Philadelphia Eagles

[Editor’s note: This preview was originally published on Feb. 23, 2017, and updated on March 6 to reflect changes in the market do to franchise tags, re-signings, cuts, etc.]

What you need to know

Howie Roseman has never been shy of a splash in free agency, and the same can be expected this year. The Eagles’ new coaching staff will look to continue the evolution of the roster without a reliance on journeyman veterans signed predominantly because of scheme familiarity.

Salary cap room

$8,686,350 (29th in NFL; as of 3/6/17)

Biggest needs

• Wide receiver
• Cornerback
• Running back
• Defensive tackle

Notable free agents

• Bennie Logan, DT, 45.1 overall grade in 2016
• Leodis McKelvin, CB, 69.5
• Nolan Carroll, CB, 51.7
• Stephen Tulloch, LB, 57.5

Must re-sign

Bennie Logan, DT, 45.1 overall grade in 2016

Plausibly, the Eagles might return none of their scheduled free agents this offseason. Logan, drafted to play nose tackle in an odd front, struggled adjusting to a more aggressive style under Jim Schwartz. Still, the Eagles’ desperate lack of depth at defensive tackle makes re-signing him a greater priority.

Dream splash

Alshon Jeffery, WR, Chicago Bears, 77.6

Not since 2004 have the Eagles featured a physically imposing wideout on the perimeter. Is it a coincidence the franchise has faded since Terrell Owens left town? Jeffery offers an opportunity to find out, assuming the injuries and suspensions are behind him. The Eagles’ NFL-worst receiving corps could certainly use a boost.

Top 2017 free agency prospects

DeAngelo Williams, HB, Pittsburgh Steelers, 72.9

The Eagles simply lack the resources to invest heavily at running back, even if players like Ryan Mathews are released. Williams possesses a similar running style as well as offering value for money.

Kenny Stills, WR, Miami Dolphins, 74.5

Assuming Jeffery signs elsewhere, Stills represents an intriguing alternative. Since DeSean Jackson was dumped unceremoniously, the Eagles have lacked a wideout who could stretch the field vertically. Rather than return to the well with Jackson, the organization would be better off targeting a younger, ascending talent.

Logan Ryan, CB, New England Patriots, 83.5

Like at wideout, the Eagles find themselves needing not one, but two starting corners this offseason. Ryan has the skill-set to press in single-high coverages and the talent to step in as the team’s top corner.

Jonathan Babineaux, DI, Atlanta Falcons, 46.3

With a ton of resources invested in the defensive line already, the Eagles cannot afford another expensive addition. At the age of 35, Babineaux would add experience and depth to a top-heavy unit.