At $10 million per, OLB Trent Cole’s contract make him a probably cut.
By Sarah Berkowitz
The NFL Combine starts today, so everyone is focusing on each team’s needs, and it’s a good time to summarize what the Eagles really, really need:
QB: Free agent Mark Sanchez obviously isn’t the answer, and Nick Foles was a suspect fit for Chip Kelly’s offense long before his 2014 on-field step back followed by a year-ending clavicle injury. Pre-Combine rumors suggest the Eagles would love to trade up for Oregon QB Marcus Mariota. The free-agent quarterback market is barren.
CB: RCB Cary Williams turned in a surprisingly solid 2014, but free agent LCB Bradley Fletcher was an outrageous liability. The Eagles don’t envision undersized Brandon Boykin as a viable outside cornerback, preferring him in the slot. The Eagles need a physical press corner capable of matching up with Dez Bryant, Odell Beckham, and DeSean Jackson in the NFC East.
OLB: The Eagles used their 2014 first-round pick on OLB Marcus Smith, but the Louisville alum failed to earn a single defensive snap, ultimately spending more practice time at inside than outside linebacker. Thirty-two-year-old Trent Cole will probably be released due to his $10 million salary. While Connor Barwin is a solid strong-side starter, the Eagles need a weak-side sack threat.
S: Safety is an annual problem area in Philly, and this offseason is no different with FS Nate Allen headed to free agency. Because DC Billy Davis’ scheme relies on man coverage and high blitz frequency, his defense would greatly benefit from a centerfield safety with range.
