Philadelphia Eagles Facing Major Changes After Disappointing Season

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ICARO Media Group
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15/02/2024 22h18

The Philadelphia Eagles are preparing for a major overhaul following a disappointing 2023-2024 NFL season that saw them finish with a dismal 1-6 record after a strong start of 10-1. The team is expected to make substantial changes to its roster, with several key players possibly leaving the franchise.

One of the first dominoes to fall is veteran All-Pro center Jason Kelce, who reportedly informed his teammates of his decision to retire after an impressive 13-season career with the Eagles. However, recent reports suggest that Kelce may be having a change of heart.

Meanwhile, defensive end Brandon Graham, who will turn 36 in April, has expressed his desire to return for one final season, his 15th with the Eagles. Known as one of the few players deserving of writing his own final script, Graham's decision is eagerly awaited by fans.

The Eagles have a considerable number of free agents this offseason, with over 20 players hitting the open market. Among them, several players exceeded expectations during the season. Running back D'Andre Swift, in his first season with the Eagles, made the Pro Bowl after rushing for a career-high 1,049 yards and five touchdowns. He also contributed 39 receptions for 214 yards and a touchdown.

Offensive tackle Jordan Mailata, center Jason Kelce, and tackle Lane Johnson were among the top-rated players in their respective positions this season. Mailata stood out as the only NFL offensive tackle to earn a grade of at least 83.0 in both run blocking and pass blocking.

Wide receiver A.J. Brown continued his impressive performance from the previous season, setting an Eagles record with 106 catches for 1,456 yards and seven touchdowns. He surpassed the team's record for receiving yards in a season and solidified his place as a key offensive weapon for the Eagles.

On the defensive side, safety Blankenship had a standout season with three interceptions, 79 solo tackles, and a team-leading total of 113 tackles. As a former undrafted free agent, Blankenship has become a crucial part of the Eagles defense and is expected to remain an integral piece alongside Sydney Brown.

Punter Braden Mann brought stability to the often uncertain position, setting Eagles records with an impressive average of 49.8 yards per punt and a net average of 43.9 yards. As an unrestricted free agent, Mann will likely draw interest from multiple teams in the open market.

Wide receiver Britain Covey, although limited by a left knee procedure in the offseason, demonstrated his prowess as a punt returner, averaging the second-most yards per punt return in the league. With new Offensive Coordinator Kellen Moore expected to bring in changes, Covey may have an opportunity to showcase his talents as a receiver in the upcoming season.

Linebacker Zach Cunningham battled injuries throughout the season but still managed to amass 85 tackles and two fumble recoveries in 13 games. His absence during the final stretch of the season was a significant factor in the Eagles' late-season collapse.

Defensive tackle Carter, a first-round pick in the 2023 Draft, showed promise during his rookie year, recording six sacks, 33 tackles, and two forced fumbles. While he started just one game, Carter's performance placed him as the runner-up for the AP NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award.

Veteran defensive tackle Fletcher Cox continued to make his mark on the field, producing 33 total tackles, five sacks, 17 quarterback hits, and three tackles for loss. Despite his role as a mentor, Cox remained a consistent force as an interior pass rusher, earning Pro Bowl nominations in previous seasons.

Undrafted free agent Ricks showcased his skills during his rookie season, with 19 tackles, one tackle for loss, and three passes defended in 16 games. He displayed a solid ability to cover opposing receivers, only allowing a 76.2 passing rating and 11.7 yards per reception.

The Philadelphia Eagles face numerous challenges as they enter an offseason filled with uncertainty. With potential retirements, free agency departures, and the need to fill key positions, the team will have to make shrewd decisions to rebuild and emerge as a competitive force in the upcoming season.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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