The Philadelphia Eagles seemingly have parted ways with most of their defensive starters from last season. As of the time of this writing, Philly is projected to lose 8 out of 11 defensive starters. Fletcher Cox, Javon Hargrave, T.J Edwards, Kyzir White, James Bradberry, CJGJ, and Marcus Epps are all unrestricted free agents, and they will test out the market. Along with those 7 starters, the Eagles have given Darius Slay Permission to seek a trade. This can seem discouraging for Eagles fans, but we should try to stay optimistic about the defense.
Although we will inevitably be losing a few starters, we still have the anchor of the team staying in place. Haason Reddick, Josh Sweat, and Brandon Graham will all be back with the Birds. These three players combined totaled 38 sacks last season. 38 sacks is more than the Bears (20), Falcons (21), Raiders (27), Bengals (30), Browns and Packers (34), Jaguars and Panthers (35), and the Broncos and Cardinals at 36. It also ties the 38 sacks that the Vikings and Rams had. There is no reason to doubt the relentless pass rush that Philly will continue to have off the edge.
Another reason to stay optimistic, is because we have young guys who the Eagles may feel are ready to take bigger roles. Jordan Davis, Nakobe Dean, Zech Mcphearson, and Reed Blankenship could all be a much bigger piece of the puzzle this year.
Lastly, we all become inpatient, but by now we should all trust Howie to get some stuff done. Sure, sometimes it may take him awhile, but there is always an opportunity to make the team better, and he usually finds it. Whether its a trade, or some big free agency signings, Howie knows what to do to help bolster the roster.
The Eagles may be losing a good amount of their starters, but we should all remain optimistic, and trust that Howie will have the teams best interest in mind this offseason.
