Wild Monday

Posted: October 31st, 2017 | Author: | Filed under: Philadelphia Eagles | 214 Comments »

Normally the focus on Monday is reflecting on Sunday’s game. That’s not the case today.

The strangest news to me was the report that the Eagles showed some interest in trading for Calvin Johnson, the retired superstar receiver from the Lions. There were some odd rumors about this on Sunday, but they didn’t come from credible sources. That changed tonight. This seems like a really odd move for the Eagles to look into, if it is true. We still don’t know that for a fact.

Johnson is two years younger than Larry Fitzgerald, who remains a pretty darn good player. Johnson hasn’t played since 2015, but you have to think an athlete of his caliber stays in pretty good shape. It would be fun to see Carson Wentz get another weapon, even if that isn’t the top need for the Eagles right now.

I’m not going to cover this much because it seems like such a crazy idea. We’ll see if anything comes of this.

*****

There is a lot of speculation about the Eagles having interest in RB Frank Gore.

I have very mixed feelings on this. Gore is one of my all-time favorite non-Eagles. I love the physicality of his running, plus the fact he is such a smart player. I would love to see him in this offense.

At the same time, he’s 34 and averaging 3.7 yards per carry. To be fair, that average is driven down by one game (25-57 vs CLE), but he’s clearly a declining player. How much is left in the tank? If the Colts cut him, I’d be all over bringing him in, but a trade? I’m not so sure. At most, I’m giving up a future late-rounder.

The Eagles run game was at its best in 2016 when Ryan Mathews ran hard and broke tackles. It has been most effective this year with LeGarrette Blount doing the same thing. The difference is that he doesn’t have Mathews speed. Gore doesn’t either, but he is faster than Blount.

*****

The Eagles lost one target when Houston traded LT Duane Brown to Seattle. The price was steep…a 2nd, a 5th and a starting CB. Clearly that is a situation the Eagles were not involved with. That is way out of their price range. Seattle had one of the worst O-lines in the league and was desperate. The Eagles are interested in improving at OT if possible, but have one very good starter and one young player they consider a solid starter.

*****

You can bet the Eagles are talking to all kinds of teams about many different players. There aren’t a lot of solid rumors right now, but most experts think the Eagles will make a lot of calls to see who is available. Howie Roseman loves to make trades, plus the team is 7-1. If you can upgrade the roster to help bolster it for an extended playoff run, go do it.

*****

I don’t want to get into the legal side of this. That’s way over my head. Go check out Andrew Brandt’s Twitter feed for good info.

This would mean Elliott would miss the first Eagles-Cowboys game. I have mixed feelings about that. It does make it easier to beat them, which is always nice, but part of me would like to see the Eagles tested down the stretch. This team needs to be pushed to get ready for the postseason.

I’m not getting on a moral high-horse about the situation because there are so many questions about what actually happened, but what I’ve heard about Elliott behind the scenes and what we know publicly doesn’t make him seem like a person who deserves much sympathy even if the process was flawed.

*****

The Eagles host the Broncos on Sunday. Denver lost to KC 29-19 on MNF and did not look good on offense.

They do have the #1 defense in the league (yards). Even when you beat them, it isn’t easy. That D is still a juggernaut. The offense is just a mess right now. It wouldn’t shock me if they made a QB change before Sunday.

_

214 Comments on “Wild Monday”

  1. 1 CrackSammich said at 12:26 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Beyond crazy thought: What if Brady retires and Cousins signs with the Patriots?

  2. 2 daveH said at 8:02 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Thinking similar. .cousins is smart and might keep Beli energized.

  3. 3 Koy: The Legend of Neckbeard said at 12:40 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Gore doesn’t have much to offer beyond Blount.

    Feels like the Megatron rumors are an attempt to smoke out offers for WRs. Howie is canny guy and I don’t quite understand that rumor if it’s true, unless it has a purpose.

  4. 4 Koy: The Legend of Neckbeard said at 12:45 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Also: didn’t realize Larry Fitzgerald could conceivably end this year 3rd all time in career receiving yards. Incredible career. https://www.pro-football-re…

    Feeling old remembering him at Pitt.

  5. 5 Anders said at 6:14 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Gore has 2 things over Blount. He is effective as a receiver and he is a monster in blitz protection and with Peters out, the last thing is really needed

  6. 6 Iskar36 said at 2:16 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Honest question. Who would we rather face next week at QB, Siemian or Osweiler?

  7. 7 Dragon_Eagle said at 4:25 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    I would go with Siemian – more of a known quantity as they’ve got recent film on him and his tendencies. Plus Siemian’s play of late has been awful. Fine with me if he continues that trend.

  8. 8 Dave said at 8:06 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    If healthy, it will probably be Lynch.

  9. 9 scratcherk said at 8:13 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    either

  10. 10 Eagles_Fan_in_San_Fran said at 2:43 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    With Elliott gone for 6 that may well keep the ‘boys out of the playoffs and cause a meltdown in Big D.
    Dilly, dilly!

  11. 11 Dragon_Eagle said at 4:25 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Philly Dilly!

  12. 12 Forthebirds said at 8:56 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Skip Brainless will still be saying Dallas is the better team as he’s getting out his knife to slit his writs.

  13. 13 Ryan Rambo said at 4:43 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/2656854e40cb0af1b8d37e4952d3560bca425082e203d061d8c327ece06a0ba3.jpg

  14. 14 daveH said at 7:26 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Philly
    Philly

  15. 15 Ryan Rambo said at 9:08 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/c6bb81740da4b060fc5b0cbe132e991fd6bc57795945a03f531fb16b0758faa5.jpg

  16. 16 daveH said at 1:14 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    On problem is that this guy looks like a complete dope. .
    ..
    And the king sent the Yagermeister guy to the dungeon .. that’s pure idiocy.

  17. 17 Dragon_Eagle said at 2:33 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Second problem Bud Light taste like infected weasel urine. Don’t ask how I know that.

  18. 18 Insomniac said at 7:47 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    no.

  19. 19 Bert's Bells said at 8:26 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Super no.

    Dumbest thing in America: going around quoting TV commercials.

  20. 20 eagleyankfan said at 8:47 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Where’s the beef? (unless you’re too young to know).

  21. 21 Ryan Rambo said at 8:52 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Sticks up their butts lol. DILLY DILLY!!!

  22. 22 Bert's Bells said at 9:52 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    I avoid that Noid.

  23. 23 eagleyankfan said at 8:47 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    this is hysterical!

  24. 24 Dragon_Eagle said at 4:45 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    I’m calling smoke screen. Calvin Johnson, Frank Gore, Brian Urlacherzzz,…. these just don’t seem like Howie Roseman moves. Chip Kelly maybe, but not Howie.

    Howie’s putting up a smokescreen to do 1 of 2, or possibly both, things: 1) his real target is totally orthogonal to what’s coming out publicly and he’s distracting everyone with these silly rumors; or 2) he’s being “aggressive” to get our rivals (see Seahawks) to overpay. He’s bidding up the market a bit.

  25. 25 Bert's Bells said at 8:25 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Eagles are getting Uralakker!!!

  26. 26 sonofdman said at 9:14 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Anquan Bolden has been seen with Malcom Jenkins and Jeffrey Lurie quite a bit lately. We are obviously trading for Bolden.

  27. 27 Ark87 said at 10:03 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    I agree, however it does make sense to target old dudes in mid season. If you need to put a band aid on something (get something fixed fast in the short term), then you need a veteran to the nth degree that know the game inside out to be able integrate into a new system quickly.

  28. 28 Guy Media said at 5:19 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    See what Elliot and Jones get for being obstinate, insubordinate, and completely unrealistic; a suspension in the middle of the season. Nice work. Your team would have been better served if you just dolts. Shame the victims of his crimes aren’t able to get the satisfaction of seeing Elliot’s abusive ass thrown in jail, but this public shaming should be some measure of relief.

    And I’m just going to leave this here.
    https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DJAIcbYVAAEX6fq.jpg

  29. 29 teltschikfakeout88 said at 11:04 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    For a second there I thought you were talking about our punter and kicker…

  30. 30 Guy Media said at 5:29 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    I’m 100% fine if they don’t add anybody by trade. The guys who we can’t afford to lose via injury have been notified to stay upright through the end of the season, so I expect them to work towards that.

  31. 31 Frencheaglesfan said at 6:24 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Those trade rumors are bullcraps. What message you send to the team if you trade asset for a starter in a 7-1 team? A new WR? they are all ballin’. A new OL? maybe for depht indeed but Vatai has been solid. Sure if we compare him to an hall of famer we are going to be disappointed but compare him to Giants or 49ers OL and you are glad you have him.

  32. 32 FairOaks said at 8:43 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Trading for a backup to Vaitai would make sense though. Or even replacing Vaitai for a free-agent-to-be — he was expecting to be the backup. But doubt those type guys are cheaply available.

  33. 33 eagleyankfan said at 8:43 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Don’t want to compare him to teams not making the playoffs…

  34. 34 GermanEagle said at 8:23 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    WOW, that was quick. When looking at the Eagles schedule on my app it seems that the 3 December game has already been flexed to Sunday night: https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/9ec0b3f65abaf0e4e26e623e7eb7063dcd601cab64d8c20981a935d183097724.png

  35. 35 eagleyankfan said at 8:46 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    The should flex the Rams game too 🙂

  36. 36 FairOaks said at 9:19 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Pretty sure that was always scheduled as a Sunday Night game.

    http://www.phillyvoice.com/philadelphia-eagles-2017-nfl-schedule/

  37. 37 eagleyankfan said at 8:49 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    it’s nice to throw out stats from previous weeks. Good for the hopefuls I guess. Each week is a new challenge. Last game != this game.

  38. 38 Gary Barnes said at 9:10 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Howie focusing on another WR? It is strange with our issues at RB, OT, LB and CB, but maybe he is trying to get his version of TO. Perhaps he also believes he can get Johnson cheaply.

    Just say no to Gore. He skipped out on playing here before so screw him and his declining skill set.

    Good news on Elliott. The “testing” theory is over-rated. Pats have a horrible division that they dominate every year and the ease of it never holds them back in the playoffs. In fact, I would argue that an easier regular season HELPS playoff success since the team may be more healthy. I want as many easy games as possible so we can secure HFA and get a bye.

    Denver is beatable due to their offensive woes and the fact the game is in PHL. Denver has not been as good on the road.

  39. 39 Frencheaglesfan said at 9:17 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    2016 and 2017 draft classes look really amazing! Thanks Howie Thanks Joe.

  40. 40 Anders said at 9:22 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    The Eagles have a new RB, in Jay Ayaji

  41. 41 deshawnbentley said at 9:23 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Wow ajayi for a fourth. Steal

  42. 42 Dave said at 9:32 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Hopefully his knees hold up.

  43. 43 Ankerstjernen said at 2:48 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    The dolphins have been giving him rest days during the week so far this season to help him get rid of inflammation in that knee of his that he got surgically repaired in college. It seems to be a permanent issue, and perhaps a degenerative one, that he will never get past. You have to assume that the team has checked that out thoroughly before making this trade. He could be the type of player that doesnt make it to his first contract before he is done. That is not exactly worth a 4th at this point.

  44. 44 meteorologist said at 5:24 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Yes it is a chronic issue that won’t go away.

    Yes he is worth a 4th because he is a beast who has the potential to help us win a Super Bowl(s)

  45. 45 Ankerstjernen said at 9:17 AM on November 2nd, 2017:

    I agree, actually. Right now he runs very well, doesnt seem to be limited in games at all. And the fins have been feeding him the ball a lot, so its not like they have been trying to spare him in order to have him hold up for the whole season. It point towards him being fine in the shorter term, and that the knee issues might possibly be a longer term problem. So say we have him for this season and the next one too year he is a 3 down workhorse back throughout two off seasons in which we are contending for a super bowl, and that costs us a 4th rounder… Ya. Considering that we were missing something at the position, I think we should be ok with that. Any more out of him would of course be nice. But it is a step towards win-now that probably came about because of of the way this team has exceeded expectations this year.

  46. 46 bill said at 3:15 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Well, the Dolphins got him for a fifth. And has a chronic condition. And on egood season.

    I’m happy they got him. But let’s not pretend that they just traded for an established stud.

    I like the fact that it looks like Pederson is going to double down on pounding the ball between the tackles. But I think people are overvaluing one good season out of this guy.

  47. 47 Anders said at 5:05 AM on November 1st, 2017:

    Ajayi is his best on outside zone, but also good between the tackles

  48. 48 Anders said at 9:29 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    I be honest, I really liked Jay when he came out. Thought he had disappointing rookie year but really played well last year

  49. 49 Insomniac said at 9:32 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Howie the god.

  50. 50 Tumtum said at 9:33 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Wooooooooooiooooooo. tHAT IS A WORTH WHILE USE OF A DRAFT PICK!!!

  51. 51 Frencheaglesfan said at 9:34 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    If I start a franchise, my second pick after Wentz is Howie. What a trade!

  52. 52 Tumtum said at 9:36 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    How in God’s name is he worth only a 4??? Injuries??

  53. 53 Dave said at 9:38 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Knees

  54. 54 Anders said at 9:39 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Imply he still has em

  55. 55 Dave said at 9:41 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    https://www.thephinsider.com/2015/6/1/8695651/are-the-concerns-about-jay-ajayis-knee-real-or-imagined

  56. 56 eagleyankfan said at 9:56 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    I get it – you’re quoting an article from 2015 — since he’s been in the NFL – has he missed time? Not sure why you’re so concerned…

  57. 57 Dave said at 10:01 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    A simple Google search will show you he is given 1 day off per week for practice due to sore knees. There are numerous current articles form this season on his knee issues and knee soreness.

    The article I linked was to show why there are knee concerns in the first place.

  58. 58 Anders said at 10:10 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Brian Westbrook missed like 90% of practice the last couple of years here and still average like 1600+ yards from scrimmage each year

  59. 59 Dave said at 10:42 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    I think the main difference was that Westy was a finesse player and Ajayi is a power back.

  60. 60 eagleyankfan said at 10:14 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    most star players at the skilled position get time off each week so it’s hard to judge from that standpoint…Every rookie is put under the micro-scope coming into the nfl. That has fumble problems – that one has character issues – that one has a bad shoulder(speaking of which – was there an article about Luck having shoulder issues when coming out of college?) — point is — I’m taking ‘articles’ with a grain of salt…I’m taking his actual playing time as an indication of his knees. That young man is not missing games nor is he complaining about the OL. Gase(?) on the other hand…

  61. 61 Dave said at 10:42 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    I’m not saying his knees are shot or that he can’t be a great player for a long time. I’m just saying his knees are a known concern. That’s it, nothing more.

  62. 62 Mac said at 9:39 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Well, for starters… he hasn’t done anything this year.

  63. 63 eagleyankfan said at 9:47 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    That OL in Miami sucks.

  64. 64 Tumtum said at 2:23 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Just because a mack truck is in the garage doesn’t mean it isn’t ready to hual some dirt!

  65. 65 Tumtum said at 9:39 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    I was gonning to make a post when I got to work about our lack of ability to run the ball the last two weeks. Guess I’ll just talk about the weak middle.

  66. 66 Mac said at 9:45 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Does Ajayi know how to block?

  67. 67 FairOaks said at 9:49 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    That is the interesting question. That is the major skillset our RBs don’t have right now.

  68. 68 usmcnole said at 1:15 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Yes. He ranks much btter than our previous stable

  69. 69 Ark87 said at 9:46 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Yeah, but the O-line, get me some O-line Howie. No Seumalu being our next guy up at tackle, please.

  70. 70 Dave said at 9:48 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    It’s a shame Howie couldn’t have got the Dolphins to take our 2017 4th rounder instead.

  71. 71 CrackSammich said at 9:49 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Rookie contract though 2018. I approve.

    https://overthecap.com/player/jay-ajayi/3997

  72. 72 Bert's Bells said at 9:49 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Was just about to post this. Makes good dollars sense.

  73. 73 Jernst said at 9:51 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    230 pounds? Ajayi’s nowhere near big enough to play LT! SMH Howie…

    Kidding aside…I haven’t watched any dolphins games this year, because, well…the dolphins…so I don’t know why he was struggling so much this year, but the dude did have 1200 yards last year, he’s got talent, we gave up pretty much nothing as we didn’t really need 4 4th rounders next year and he makes close to the vet minimum over the next two years…not a bad addition as a combo of Blount and Ajayi >>>>> Blount and Clement/Smallwood/Barner.

  74. 74 meteorologist said at 1:51 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    His offensive line has been bad and he had not hit the holes that were there, Gase said he was looking to hit big plays too much. I’m stoked for this trade though because he’s still a beast.

  75. 75 Ark87 said at 9:51 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Also, how is Ajayi at protecting his QB? Obviously he will be a liability in that department while he learns our playbook and blocking scheme. But hopefully after spending a few all-nighters with stout, he will be a much-needed upgrade on 3rd down.

  76. 76 eagleyankfan said at 9:57 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    he’s an upgrade…period. New coaches/new venue to play for….not concerned at all….

  77. 77 Ark87 said at 10:10 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    I got a pair of green-tinted shades too, but I’d like to know about his blocking

  78. 78 eagleyankfan said at 10:17 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    if I’m saying he’s an upgrade — wouldn’t that say I DON’T have green tinted shades? Shouldn’t I be saying the Eagles have better talent? Wouldn’t my Shades by white and teal?

  79. 79 Fufina said at 10:28 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    PFF has him rated in the teens for pass blocking efficiency (cannot find the tweet). His blocking was pretty bad last season, but he seems to have made progress in 2017 as a blocker. He is an improvement over what we have currently.

    The reason why teams have been doing so much A and B gap blitzing recently is to attack our awful pass blocking RB’s, especially since most teams have struggled to get much pressure against our OL just rushing 4.

  80. 80 or____ said at 10:30 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Brandon Lee Gowton ✔ @BrandonGowton
    Report: Eagles send draft pick to Dolphins in exchange for RB Jay Ajayi https://www.bleedinggreennation.com/2017/10/31/16580934/jay-ajayi-trade-eagles-dolphins-running-back-nfl-draft-pick-2018-fourth-round-miami-fantasy-football?utm_campaign=brandongowton&utm_content=chorus&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter …
    Follow
    Brandon Lee Gowton ✔@BrandonGowton
    FWIW, Jay Ajayi ranks 19th out of 44 RBs in pass protection this season by @PFF.

    (Blount 33rd, Smallwood 44th) #Eagles
    9:33 AM – Oct 31, 2017
    13 13 Replies 110 110 Retweets 286 286 likes

  81. 81 SteveH said at 11:12 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Yikes, 44 out of 44? I knew it was bad but holy shit.

  82. 82 or____ said at 11:28 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Yep, but take PFF into account…

  83. 83 FairOaks said at 3:21 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    and I thought Smallwood was the best of a bad bunch at it

  84. 84 Ryan Rambo said at 9:53 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    https://youtu.be/8DWyjGfsAT4

  85. 85 Frencheaglesfan said at 9:54 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    https://twitter.com/MySportsUpdate/status/925352988503404545

  86. 86 CrackSammich said at 10:03 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Not necessarily against it, but that one is gonna cost.

  87. 87 Fufina said at 10:25 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Would be really going all in to trade for him. We could JUST squeeze him under the cap, but we are probably going to need to restructure a couple of mil to get the space in 2017.

    And that just makes a tight 2018 cap situation super tight. I guess you could would Smith right now to free up space – but he is a popular player even if not a great one, and may damage team moral.

  88. 88 FairOaks said at 10:33 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    I really don’t see the need to add to the WR corps. They are doing pretty good and you could be messing with chemistry. Would mean the end of Jeffery after this season, no doubt.

  89. 89 xeynon said at 10:39 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    I don’t like the idea of trading for a WR mid-season. With the exception of rare freaks like Randy Moss, unlike with a RB you really need to have chemistry with QB to thrive at that position, and that takes time to develop.

  90. 90 GermanEagle said at 9:55 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Ajayi (4th round pick) >>> Pomphrey (4th round pick).

  91. 91 xeynon said at 10:46 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Right now the Pumphrey pick isn’t looking great (though there’s still time for him to turn it around). Even if he turns out to be a bust though, okay, that happens. Nobody hits on 100% of their picks. This draft class is still looking pretty good based on the contributions of Barnett, Douglas, and Hollins alone. Sidney Jones is a first round talent waiting in the wings. And Qualls, Gerry, and Gibson are still around, if not contributing, which isn’t unusual for late round picks. Plus there’s Clement.

  92. 92 Ankerstjernen said at 2:54 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Qualls have already shown a few things, and he is going to stick around and contribute in the future. This class so far is looking very good, with the obvious exception of Pumphrey.

  93. 93 scratcherk said at 9:57 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    I have way too many eagles on my fantasy roster now. WOOOOOOHOOOOOO!

  94. 94 GermanEagle said at 10:12 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Apparently Ajayi is already in Philly.

    Guess they Eagles medical staff has been doing their homework with his knees already!

    Please another OT today and we are ready to roll!

  95. 95 Corry said at 10:17 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    ’18 4th round pick for a 24 year old running back with a good resume? Yes please.

  96. 96 eagleyankfan said at 10:24 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Blount/Smallwood/Clement and Eagles trade for an rb. Is Smallwood more hurt than what’s being let on? Is Blount disappointing? It’s understood you make trades that make sense and better your team – but this move was made for a reason…just wondering if there are concerns about the 3 mentioned…

  97. 97 Mac said at 10:27 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    If he helps protect Wentz then it’s 100% worth it.

  98. 98 eagleyankfan said at 10:28 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Agreed!

  99. 99 Frencheaglesfan said at 10:28 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Ajayi is a probowl rb. If for a fourth you can have chris harris, even if you are stacked at cb you say yes.

  100. 100 eagleyankfan said at 10:28 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Fair enough.

  101. 101 FairOaks said at 10:30 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    He was a probowl RB last year. 3.4 average this year. His OL is poor, no doubt, but ours is getting worse without Peters.

  102. 102 xeynon said at 10:31 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    He has a bad OL and a bad QB. That entire offense has been dog crap this year. He’s 24, I doubt he’s suddenly declined physically.

  103. 103 FairOaks said at 10:38 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Sure. I more meant that he’s doesn’t seem like an RB that will overcome a bad OL — and ours is getting worse. But I’m sure we are better than Miami, so if they can still block, he can still get yards. My main hope is that he can pass-block, which would greatly help in protecting Wentz as well as disguising if a play is a run or pass.

  104. 104 xeynon said at 10:40 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    I don’t know how much worse our OL is based on one game. Losing JP hurts, but that is a small sample size and SF has a good defensive front 7 (about the only thing they have that’s good).

  105. 105 FairOaks said at 10:51 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Mainly losing JP. Vaitai’s past history was supposedly decent in pass pro, less good at run blocking, but he can certainly improve. He’s way better than when he was thrown into the fire last year.

    SF has a good front but Solomon Thomas got injured (among others) so Vaitai was going up against lesser players that second half. Don’t want to be too down on Vaitai — seemed to play fine, mostly, and should only get better with more experience.

    I do worry with messing with chemistry, but pass-blocking ability in the backfield is enough of a problem to make the risk worth it here, to me — though I have little idea how good Ajayi is there. I’m sure he won’t play much until after the bye.

  106. 106 xeynon said at 11:32 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Watching Vaitai in the running game, I’ve seen a guy who’s not a dominant drive blocker but is quick enough to be an effective positional blocker. I wouldn’t be running any straight ahead running plays that require him to fire off the ball and blow his man off the line of scrimmage to succeed, but if we’re running mostly misdirection and stretch stuff I think he’ll be okay. He had a nice block on that 3rd and 6 that Corey Clement converted late in the Redskins game – he basically wiped out Mason Foster and Clement followed him all the way to the marker. Hopefully he can improve with more reps.

  107. 107 FairOaks said at 10:29 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Pretty much guarantees Blount is gone next year. I wonder if that will affect his attitude this year. That is the one downside that I see. Clement may end up back on the practice squad. Not all that many touches already to go around.

    I’m hoping Ajayi is at least decent in pass protection. That is the major issue since Sproles went down. That can also affect which plays you can call, etc.

    Spending a 4th round pick is a bit tough, given lack of picks already, but he is signed at rookie wages through next year so this won’t affect the cap significantly, and it removes a screaming need in the draft. We get half a season to evaluate him, anyways. He’s proven this year he’s not going to be good behind a bad line; will be interesting to see if he’s any better here.

  108. 108 or____ said at 10:33 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Sorry but I hate this thinking “Pretty much guarantees Blount is gone next year”.

    No, only if you embrace stringing together multiple ASSumptions. I try to avoid assumptions, and basing a point off of compounded assumptions/jumping to conclusions.

    Sure, I see the logic there, but it’s no guarantee. It does give them much more flexibility – especially to focus on OL in the draft.

  109. 109 FairOaks said at 10:36 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    I suppose they could end up as a great tandem. But if Ajayi looks great, you may be trying to sign him for an extension this offseason. He could end up a bust as well, of course, and Blount could still be the target, sure. But they seem to be similarish runners, not necessarily a complementary skillset. But I haven’t watched Ajayi a ton.

  110. 110 or____ said at 10:38 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    I don’t necessarily buy the “complimentary is mandatory” argument though. First, it’s not like they’ll only care 2 backs. Between Pumphrey, Smallwood, Barner, Clement, and Sproles, there’s likely to be a “different type” than the power guys as options – not to mention draft picks.

    Optionality.

    Plus, while Ajaiyi does have some similarities to Blount, I think of him as a bit faster and more elusive. Less “mostly a power back”….

  111. 111 eagleyankfan said at 10:38 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Can you put someone back on the practice squad?

  112. 112 or____ said at 10:39 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    I believe so right?

  113. 113 FairOaks said at 10:39 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    No, you can release them, and if they have no other options, they will sign there.

  114. 114 or____ said at 10:40 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Oh

  115. 115 CrackSammich said at 10:41 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Clement is a heavy ST producer. If anything, it means the end for Barner.

  116. 116 scratcherk said at 10:42 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Barner doing great as PR. Wouldnt cut him. Smallwood if anyone.

  117. 117 kajomo said at 11:37 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Clement has fumbling issues and went undrafted. Small woods also has the speed the rest of the backs lack. I’d say he is safe and Clement would be the odd man out.

    That said I don’t see any reason to cut a RB. We started the season with 5. Maybe one can be put into a trade package

  118. 118 Jernst said at 11:57 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    PR >>> kickoff coverage as far as ST go

  119. 119 RobNE said at 12:16 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    thought he was gone anyway

  120. 120 teltschikfakeout88 said at 10:56 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Blount is a physical runner who is on the wrong side of 30…this trade has the potential for us in the out years assuming that Ajayi works out for us…could we get a really good RB in the 4th round…sure…but why not take an NFL player that is viewed as still ascending versus rolling the dice on a 4th round RB that may not be able to play ST’s or help protect the QB…

  121. 121 Donald Kalinowski said at 11:09 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Blount isn’t a good pass protector and needs to have his carries limited due to age.

  122. 122 Jernst said at 11:55 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    None of them can pass block. Neither Clement or Smallwood can run all that well with both averaging under 4ypc. Smallwood is never healthy. And Blount is great…as long as he has someone to share the load with.

  123. 123 xeynon said at 10:30 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Ajayi for a 4th round pick seems like good value to me. They may only play him lightly this week, but hopefully he’s able to study up on the playbook over the bye and is ready to roll when we play Dallas.

  124. 124 Frencheaglesfan said at 10:32 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    https://twitter.com/PatrickMCausey/status/925357832588980225

  125. 125 or____ said at 10:33 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Um… wow.

  126. 126 scratcherk said at 10:36 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    its a thing of beauty

  127. 127 xeynon said at 10:36 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Howie is playing Moneyball. He’s found an inefficiency in the NFL market (the fact that teams don’t take full advantage of the ability to trade for players) and is exploiting it. This is why I’m glad he, and not a “football guy”, is the GM. You don’t want somebody who looks at things and says “we won’t make trades, big-time trades rarely happen in the NFL”. You want a guy who looks at things and questions why it is that big-time trades rarely happen and investigates whether it’s possible to change that.

  128. 128 CrackSammich said at 10:46 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    If anything, I’d say the inefficiency is in the overvaluation of late round picks. Any starter for a 6th is basically saying your starter is worth a ST guy.

  129. 129 xeynon said at 11:34 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Yeah, agreed. I get that getting guys who are cost controlled in the draft is really important, but I think a guy you know can play but is cost controlled for only a year or two like Ajayi or Darby is more valuable than an unknown with a 50-50 shot of making the roster at best, the typical profile for a 5th round+ rookie.

  130. 130 Bert's Bells said at 12:03 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Especially if your 4th rounder is a back up/developmental player/inactive for their first season.

    You’re basically trading a pick for a slightly older, known quantity and one to two years of cost control.

    Sure it can blow up on you, but there’s logic to it.

  131. 131 BC1968 said at 11:14 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    He’s playing New England Patriots ball, they seem to get the most out of what they have surrounded by an excellent QB. Howie and Wentz, assuming Doug is the real deal = A good to great team for tears to come.

  132. 132 iceberg584 said at 12:40 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Those better be tears of joy.

  133. 133 BC1968 said at 2:27 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Haha saw my email and was like wtf, this response doesn’t match my comment. I stand by my comment, yes, tears of joy.

  134. 134 or____ said at 10:48 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Help me out guys – am I correct that Hicks isn’t on IR yet, so we don’t have to cut anyone after this trade?

  135. 135 Corry said at 10:57 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Correct.

  136. 136 or____ said at 11:00 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Thanks

  137. 137 Seth S. Scott said at 10:57 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    ITS OFISH, AJAYI

  138. 138 CrackSammich said at 10:57 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    At this point, I assume the only scouting Howie is doing is checking if they have dreads.

  139. 139 Tumtum said at 11:27 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    What a set Jay has too!

  140. 140 Masked Man said at 1:08 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    It’s the intangibles that make the difference.

  141. 141 Eagles4life said at 10:58 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Calling all Eagles fan to the Super Bowl Parade Monday after!!!

  142. 142 sonofdman said at 11:16 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    You are getting ahead of yourself. The parade will be on Tuesday, not Monday.

  143. 143 Eagles4life said at 11:22 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Oh crap! I guess pre parade festivites! 😉

  144. 144 or____ said at 11:29 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Well played

  145. 145 Donald Kalinowski said at 11:06 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Darby and Ajayi are better than what teams typically get from 3rd and 4th round picks (obviously there are always outliers). There also still on rookie contracts for another year which is great.

    LB and OT were my most wanted trade targets. Seattle paid a really steep price for a 32 year old OT who has only played 1 game this season. They suck at trades except when they hosed us on Daryl Tapp.

  146. 146 or____ said at 11:07 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    So is Jernigan…

  147. 147 kajomo said at 11:55 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Of course they are. They lose value because they don’t have a full 4 years of rooki salary left. It does take some risk factor out of the equation, but we will need to decide whether to pay them or not in the next offseason or two

  148. 148 SteveH said at 11:13 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    I woke up today and heard we got Ajayi? Howie we are not worthy!

  149. 149 or____ said at 11:14 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Go back to sleep please.

  150. 150 SteveH said at 11:21 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    If this is what happens when I sleep, then put me under!!

  151. 151 Ryan Rambo said at 12:12 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    LOL…Go back to sleep! We can’t be done!!

  152. 152 Eagles4life said at 11:39 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    The most interesting GM in the world (Chris Grier):
    I don’t always play GM on Halloween, but when I do, I trade my Pro bowl RB for a 4th rounder!

  153. 153 SteveH said at 11:47 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Now watch Howie still bring Calvin Johnson in.

  154. 154 or____ said at 11:49 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    To fix our WR issues?

  155. 155 kajomo said at 11:53 AM on October 31st, 2017:

    Any interest in Martavis Bryant? He could really help piper things up for the running game as a vertical threat.

  156. 156 or____ said at 12:02 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    HELL NO. We already have 3 vertical threats – Smith, Hollins, Gibson.

    And Martavis is a cry baby needed immature punk.

  157. 157 kajomo said at 12:03 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Ok then.

  158. 158 Insomniac said at 1:00 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    2 of those guys are bench warmers right now though.

  159. 159 or____ said at 1:21 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Not in my eyes (Hollins)

  160. 160 Insomniac said at 1:45 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Smith and Gibson are bench warmers.

  161. 161 or____ said at 1:53 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Semantics semontics pototos

  162. 162 meteorologist said at 1:51 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    No. Downvote

  163. 163 kajomo said at 2:14 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Wtf? How do you downvote a question? Jk

    I wasn’t saying we should. Was just curious if others were interested. There is no denying his talent, but I don’t think it’s worth it to add potential distractions to this roster. We have one goal and don’t need anyone pulling us in another direction

  164. 164 xeynon said at 3:17 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Zero. We already have vertical threats on the roster and unlike Smith and Hollins Bryant is a diva.

  165. 165 Someguy77 said at 12:06 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Great job Roseman. Gave up a 4th round pick but got a player who will be here next year at a low cap number & can be a 3-down back.

    http://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-dolphins/fl-sp-dolphins-jay-ajayi-20171031-story.html

    Addai certainly has had his struggles and share of criticism in Miami this year including from Gase. Their O-line stinks though as does their QB.

    Blount wasn’t exactly known as a great character guy either before coming here this season. It seemed like it took kind of embarrassed from not being used in the Chiefs’ game to spark him.

    Hoping that moving to a winning team with a charismatic QB will help change Addai’s attitude & performance a bit including a willingness to share carries with Blount.

  166. 166 Tdoteaglefan said at 12:08 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    ah Joseph Addai, I remember him

  167. 167 Someguy77 said at 12:09 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    He wasn’t bad at times either. 🙂

  168. 168 Someguy77 said at 12:17 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Turning down Brown for that asking price makes sense too.

    Too rich a price for him and Brown is going to want his contract redone with a monster cap figure this offseason too.

    Eagles and Seahawks just separated themselves a bit further from what is a relatively weak NFC this year.

    Sunday Night game (12/3) @ Seattle is shaping up to be a huge game for both teams.

  169. 169 Dave said at 12:19 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    This brought a smile to my face. Even in Dallas, Jerry gets skewered.

    https://twitter.com/wfaachannel8/status/925206793533435904

  170. 170 CTbirdsguy said at 12:38 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    “Rumors that Jerry wants to be the next commissioner of the NFL, because King of the World isn’t available”

  171. 171 Sean E said at 12:45 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Kinda funny to say he never did anything wrong. You can literally find a video of him sexually assaulting someone in public on live TV with a 5 second google search.

  172. 172 Bert's Bells said at 1:08 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Really dislike that guy.

  173. 173 xeynon said at 3:16 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Jones is so despicable. Firstly, the evidence that Elliott did something wrong is in fact pretty strong. Secondly, Jones wouldn’t give a crap about this “injustice” if Elliott wasn’t good at running with the football.

  174. 174 Someguy77 said at 12:24 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Broncos’ defense is overhyped and isn’t nearly as good as it was during the Super Bowl year.

    https://fivethirtyeight.com/features/denvers-defense-used-to-make-up-for-its-terrible-offense-not-this-year/

    If Siemian isn’t the worst starting QB in the NFL right now he is certainly in the bottom 3 too.

    Confident Eagles go into the bye at 8-1 and if Elliott (suspension back on!) misses the game after the bye that Boys’ game becomes a lot less daunting too.

  175. 175 Ryan Rambo said at 12:45 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/1d7af7fa3b1b2c706ee9ca566bb01736235a32bd16ee667df7721af93c3528db.png

  176. 176 Dave said at 12:59 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    https://media.profootballfocus.com/2017/10/Screenshot-4817-copy-768×432.jpg

  177. 177 Donald Kalinowski said at 12:50 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Do something Howie. I am bored

  178. 178 GermanEagle said at 12:54 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Don’t count on the fact that the Eagles will carry 5 RBs on the roster…

  179. 179 Masked Man said at 1:06 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Think Smallwood is headed to IR?
    That knee has been keeping him sidelined.

  180. 180 GermanEagle said at 1:06 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Nah.

  181. 181 Masked Man said at 1:18 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    What’s your prediction?
    Somebody has to go.

    Blount
    Smallwood
    Clement
    Barner
    Ajayi?

    I think Clement is the odd man out somehow.

    Everybody but Smallwood is successfully filing a role even if it’s only a key special teams role.

  182. 182 GermanEagle said at 1:22 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Maybe Clement plus a late rd pick for a OT? Shame the Bills are apparently done trading.

  183. 183 or____ said at 1:23 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Nobody has to go

  184. 184 Insomniac said at 1:47 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    But none of them have the last name Barkley so therefore our RBs suck.

  185. 185 or____ said at 1:55 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Patience…no need to get a Chubb just yet

  186. 186 Masked Man said at 1:55 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Next year’s business.
    We’re prepping for a playoff run.

  187. 187 Masked Man said at 1:56 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Doug will not want to dress 5 RBs.
    Especially an RB who is not rushing or playing STs due to injury every week.

  188. 188 GermanEagle said at 1:07 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    TOMMY

    we all know what the title of your next topic will be, ja?!

    “Wilder Tuesday”

    Thank me later.
    GE

  189. 189 John Dunkerley said at 1:16 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Ajayi to Eagles

  190. 190 GermanEagle said at 1:20 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Happy new year.

  191. 191 daveH said at 1:21 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Happy next few New Years!

  192. 192 daveH said at 1:17 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    That’s a crazy new skill to add !!! He’s like having Shady back .. what did it cost? ?

  193. 193 dandynator said at 1:18 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    4th lol

  194. 194 Donald Kalinowski said at 1:20 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Shady was a much better pass catcher.

  195. 195 daveH said at 1:23 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    But far more expensive

  196. 196 dandynator said at 1:17 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    after that all we have to do is draft about 3OL, 3 DL 1 LB and we good to go

  197. 197 Nailed It! said at 1:57 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    3 DL?

  198. 198 Ryan Rambo said at 1:20 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/5a873351f5c9204e5d365ef4211d6e4aeb72e9024b664b48ac43a1626f6bf497.png

  199. 199 daveH said at 1:20 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    We gotta LOVE this move !!! That’s a crazy new skill to add !!! He’s like having Shady back .. what did it cost just a 4th rounder and he is young and 1 more yr on rookie deal. SWWEWEEEEEEEEET

  200. 200 GermanEagle said at 1:23 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Ehm. I wouldn’t necessarily compare AJ’s skill set to Shady’s. You are actually comparing Thunder with Lightning here mate.

  201. 201 daveH said at 1:24 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Well then ill say his running style is different to Blount, more of the athletic runner and a nice compliment to the weaponry

  202. 202 GermanEagle said at 1:29 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Ehm. Not really. Actually.

  203. 203 daveH said at 7:32 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Ok. .i m’out. . Whers the tater tots at

  204. 204 Donald Kalinowski said at 1:24 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Kind of reminds me of the first Jerome Harrison trade.

  205. 205 GermanEagle said at 1:28 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    I hope AJ doesn’t have a brain tumour though!

  206. 206 Donald Kalinowski said at 1:30 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Haha. The Browns owner is pissed because the GM and front office left at 5pm yesterday and wasn’t in the Garrapolo conversation

    Anyone else really impressed by Lynch? 2nd rounder is a steal. That what the Eagles got for AJ Feeley and less than what they got for Kevin Kolb, Sam Bradford, and a 34 year old McNabb.

  207. 207 GermanEagle said at 1:47 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    No. Lynch sucks.

  208. 208 Tumtum said at 2:21 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Was there a trade or something. Pretty mortifying about the Browns.

  209. 209 xeynon said at 3:14 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Do we know that Jimmy G is any better than Feeley or Kolb? Until he demonstrates otherwise I’m going to assume he’s a mediocre player that Belichick and a good supporting cast made look competent, like Matt Cassel and Ryan Mallett before him.

  210. 210 teltschikfakeout88 said at 12:11 PM on November 1st, 2017:

    ahhh the post of reason

  211. 211 meteorologist said at 2:01 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    https://twitter.com/therbscout/status/925417791842390018

    So glad I have Ajayi in 2 out of 3 leagues.

  212. 212 Dragon_Eagle said at 2:08 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Um. Just surfacing from being buried under work. What just happened?

  213. 213 Dragon_Eagle said at 2:38 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    https://uploads.disquscdn.com/images/7a9890a43d787442219c51d93d15db8e7546bddaf3b565c6d4e1baa433e9dd15.jpg

  214. 214 CrackSammich said at 3:25 PM on October 31st, 2017:

    Looks like the face of a man who would break your eye.