They Did Something

We knew the Eagles were going to have a quiet offseason, but the lack of activity has been a bit frustrating. Understandable, yes. But you wanted the team to do something. They finally did.

After a season out with a neck injury, RB A.J. Dillon is on his way back to the NFL. Headed to the #Eagles on a one-year deal, source says. Dillon has received clearance from the top neck specialists in the country. pic.twitter.com/E1fdL5kpue

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) March 12, 2025

That’s not a splashy, exciting move, but I do like it. I remember talking to Fran Duffy at the Senior Bowl and telling him I wanted the Eagles to add a big back. Barkley is the star and workhorse. Will Shipley can be the third down back. I wanted a bigger guy to help near the goal line and late in games.

Dillon has been a tough, productive runner over the course of his career. He had stinger issues that cost him the 2024 season. The Eagles were comfortable enough with his health to take a chance on him. I’m sure this is a cheap, incentive-laden deal so there is minimal risk. Dillon has the ability to carry the ball 15 to 20 times a game if needed, but he can also be a role player. Running behind the Eagles OL will help him.

Honestly if we can get 1-2 runs like this every week from AJ Dillon he could quickly become a fan favourite for the #Eagles pic.twitter.com/FKqUlP2IMd

— C4 (@PAPAxC4) March 13, 2025

Dillon is more than just a power back. He caught 86 passes over his four seasons in Green Bay. He averaged 9 yards per reception. Dillon is also an effective blocker.

Has been top 10 in PFF’s pass protection grades for RBs consistently also.

— Greg Richards (@igglesnut) March 12, 2025

The Eagles can add a RB in the draft or as a primary UDFA to give depth and competition at the position. There is a deep class of RBs so there should still be good players available late.

Imagine a 247-pound sledgehammer like Dillon running behind a fullback. If only the Eagles had one…

We’ve agreed to sign FB Ben VanSumeren to a one year contract. @Toyota | #FlyEaglesFly pic.twitter.com/zkUDE9W8D1

— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) March 12, 2025

BVS began last year as a LB and STer. He eventually moved to FB. The Eagles are listing him as a FB in that graphic so the guess is that he’ll stay there for now. BVS will also be a key STer.

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Britain Covey was not tendered, making him an unrestricted free agent. The tenders were more expensive than what he’s worth right now. The Eagles can make him an offer below the tender levels if they want to bring him back. Covey was a terrific punt returner and showed some progress as a receiver. He’s worth keeping around at the right price. Some other team could swoop in and offer more if they value his return skills.

Cooper DeJean is so valuable as a DB that I don’t think you want him as a PR full time. Ainias Smith was a good PR in college. He got very little work there last year, but could end up taking that role.

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Darius Slay signed with the Steelers. Good luck to Big Play Slay in the western side of PA. I can see him being a good fit on that team.

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We thought the Eagles might have interest in Dre’Mont Jones. He’s off the market.

Source: Titans are signing free-agent DL Dre’Mont Jones to a one-year, $10 million deal. pic.twitter.com/wShtb8Isv4

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 13, 2025

Veteran DL are still getting some pretty good deals. The Eagles are going to be frugal shoppers so they need to let the key guys sign early so they can see who’s left and has the right price. Bargain shopping isn’t fun, but does make sense because of the Eagles situation. There are still interesting options on the market. Howie is being patient to see how things shake out.

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