The Philadelphia Eagles moving forward...
The Philadelphia Eagles's short-lived success at the beginning of the year, evident in a 3-0 start, quickly diminished, which resulted in a respectable 7-9 record. The Eagles did, however, win key games against the Atlanta Falcons(currently playing for the Superbowl), the New York Giants, and the Pittsburgh Steelers--showing the Eagles's rising potential as an organization. Eagles fans, when re-evaluating the past season, should be excited about three things:
1. Carson Wentz
Philadelphia was skeptical about the sudden trade of Sam Bradford to the Vikings-- thrusting an inexperienced quarterback, Carson Wentz, into the starting role. Wentz came out the gate fast, throwing for 278 yards and two touchdowns against the Cleveland Browns; followed by 190 and 301 yard games against Chicago and Pittsburgh, respectively. Wentz finished the 2016 season with sixteen touchdowns and fourteen intercepts, which is above average for a rookie starting quarterback. Even though he possesses some minor flaws; it is apparent Wentz had the intangibles: arm strength, accuracy, and vision. The Eagles have found a potential franchise quarterback, and with the quarterback experience of Doug Pederson and Frank Reich, Wenz is poised to have a successful NFL career.
2. The 2017 Draft
After the Bradford trade, the Eagles received the 14th/15th pick (coin toss with Indianapolis) which allows them to pick a potential superstar. This writer believes the best potential options are Mike Williams(WR, Clemson), Dalvin Cook (RB, Florida State), John Ross (WR, Washington), Quincy Jones (CB, Florida), Teez Tabor (CB, Florida), and Sidney Jones(CB, Washington). As you can see, the Eagles have a plethora of options at the 14th/15th spot. They decide to go offense or defense, but the obvious flaws in the Eagles's personnel is their cornerbacks and offensive playmakers. If the Eagles want to take the next step and become a Superbowl contender, they need talent.
3. Free Agency
The Eagles's cap room this offseason is predicted to be 18.75 million dollars. Therefore, the Eagles should be able to get two or three solid players. Who they target really depends on who they draft. For example, if they draft a cornerback they should target wideouts like DeSean Jackson, Alshon Jeffery, Terelle Pryor, or Kenny Stills. On the other hand, if they draft a wide receiver, they should still try to find another vertical threat but also look for corners such as Dre Kirkpatrick or Stephon Gilmore.
To conclude, the Eagles have plenty of options and paths they could follow. The question is will it be the right path?
