Offseason needs

Rich Hoffman looks at offseason needs. “four new starters: tight end, left guard, defensive end, fullback (with DE the most important. And this assumes that cornerback Lito Sheppard returns healthy.) I see a new third wide receiver and a real return specialist. I see draft picks aimed at the future: cornerback, safety, offensive line, running back.”

 

Generally on the mark, but I don’t understand the emphasis on defensive end. Is that code for Jared Allen? I’m not sure they make any free agent move on the defensive line. In theory, the Eagles have two good end starters—Cole and Thomas—and two quality d-tackles: Bunkley and Patterson. They also have Abiamiri. Sure, Jim Johnson loves rotating his linemen but I don’t see a big splash acquisition for the defensive line. Definitely in the draft, but not in free agency.

 

Free agent fullbacks are low-cost players…sayanora Tom Tapeh. Similarly, say good bye to Reno Mahe. Running back help would mean the Ryan Moats experiment is over (as if it wasn’t already given his preseason broken leg). Certainly there will be picks for the defensive secondary and it wouldn’t be an Andy Reid draft if he didn’t’ take several linemen.

 

So they need help in the secondary, at offensive skill positions (WR,TE and RB), the defensive line, and will take several O-linemen. Par for the course for the Andy Reid Eagles.