The Philadelphia Eagles fell just short of winning the Lombardi Trophy, losing to the Kansas City Chiefs 38-35 in Super Bowl 57. Given the work that Howie Roseman and the front office have done, the Eagles are in a position to contend for years to come. However, getting back to the Super Bowl is never an easy task and the franchise will have its work cut out for them.
There are going to be some big decisions to be made this off-season. The Eagles have an extraordinary amount of talent hitting the free-agent market in a few weeks and it will be impossible to retain everyone.
They will have to evaluate which players they can re-sign and which they are going to have to replace. On defense is where the toughest decisions will have to be made. Philadelphia has nine key players and starters from that side of the ball set to hit the open market, which will lead to some changes being made in the offseason.
Figuring out how to replace that level of production will not be easy, but the Eagles should be a popular landing spot for veterans looking to chase a ring. While their own players may find more lucrative offers elsewhere, older players may be willing to take a discount knowing they will play for a contender.
One position that could be a major need in the coming weeks is at cornerback. James Bradberry is hitting the free agent market, leaving a potential void opposite of Darius Slay. One player who could fit the bill as an aging star looking for a ring is Patrick Peterson.
Peterson proved in 2022 that he still has plenty left to offer a team. While he may no longer be a true No. 1 shutdown corner, he still graded out very well last season. He was the lone bright spot in what was an easily exploitable Minnesota Vikings passing defense and could look for a change of scenery.
A one-year deal is likely in the cards for Peterson and as long as it isn’t for break-the-bank money, the Eagles should be able to afford it. However, coming off one of the best seasons in his career, Peterson will assuredly be in high demand as plenty of teams around the league need to shore up their secondaries.
