Howie Roseman Kicks Off NFL Meetings With Edge Rusher Signing—But More Moves Ahead

Philadelphia Eagles’ Offseason Moves and Uncertainties

In a recent appearance at the NFL owners meetings in Phoenix, Howie Roseman, the general manager of the Philadelphia Eagles, shared news with local reporters. The team has signed outside linebacker Joe Tryon-Shoyinka to a one-year deal. While this move might not immediately address a pressing need following the departure of Jaelan Phillips in free agency, Roseman’s comments highlighted that the Eagles’ roster is still far from complete.

Evaluating the Offseason

Roseman described the current state of the Eagles’ offseason as “incomplete.” He emphasized that it’s challenging to assess the progress until the draft and other opportunities are evaluated. Despite this, Roseman has made several moves since the league year began on March 11. These include signing nine free agents, bringing back five players, trading for one, dealing away another, extending contracts for some, and restructuring deals for others.

Key Players Who Left

The Eagles have allowed 11 players to leave in free agency, including three defensive starters: safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson, defensive tackle Milton Williams, outside linebacker Josh Sweat, and cornerback Darius Slay. While the team made efforts to re-sign Jaelan Phillips, they ultimately decided against his $120 million contract offer with the Panthers.

This decision may result in the Eagles receiving a third-round pick in next year’s draft as compensation. However, the loss of Phillips leaves a gap near the top of the depth chart. Nolan Smith and Jalyx Hunt are expected to start, but Roseman hopes to add a top-line outside linebacker before midseason.

Potential Moves and Cap Space

The Eagles have been linked to a potential trade for the Vikings’ Jonathan Greenard, but this would come at a high cost. Roseman has cap space to make significant moves, though he could also consider trading wide receiver A.J. Brown if he is moved before June 1. The Eagles currently have approximately $33-35 million in cap space, which is being used strategically to maintain flexibility.

Addressing the Edge Rusher Position

Roseman mentioned that the Eagles may target the edge rusher position in the draft, but they seem more inclined to focus on the offense in the early rounds. A rookie edge rusher would likely be a project. Until then, free agents Arnold Ebiketie and Tryon-Shoyinka will have to suffice. Both have shown prior success in the NFL but regressed last season.

Safety Position Challenges

The Eagles also face uncertainty at the safety position after Reed Blankenship left for the Texans. While there were expectations of Nakobe Dean joining the Raiders, the lack of an obvious replacement for Blankenship has raised concerns. Roseman praised Blankenship, who became a captain, but acknowledged the team’s long-standing undervaluation of the safety position.

Focusing on Cornerback Strength

The Eagles can afford to go weaker at safety due to their strong cornerbacks, Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean, who had All-Pro seasons. This strength led the Eagles to sign Riq Woolen to a one-year, $15 million deal when Phillips fell through. Woolen, a supremely talented player, has shown promise but needs to improve consistency. His transition to the Eagles’ scheme under Vic Fangio remains uncertain.

Conclusion

As the Eagles continue their offseason preparations, the focus remains on addressing key positions while maintaining flexibility. With strategic moves and careful planning, Roseman aims to build a competitive roster that can thrive in the upcoming season.