Key Takeaways:
– Analysts suggest that former All-Pro safety Eddie Jackson could be a valuable addition to the Philadelphia Eagles.
– Jackson’s affiliation with Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio is seen as a potentially fruitful synergy.
– Some uncertainty remains on whether Jackson is the right fit for the Eagles, given recent performances complicated by injuries.
The Philadelphia Eagles are speculated to enhance their defensive line-up with the addition of former All-Pro safety Eddie Jackson a month ahead of their training camp. Though the roster is notably comprehensive, experts feel they could greatly benefit from this move.
How Jackson Complements the Eagles
Adam Schatz, an ESPN analyst, suggested that Jackson could be the last piece the Eagles need for the upcoming training camp. Schatz voiced concerns over the Eagles’ defensive depth, particularly with Sydney Brown’s recent ACL injury that diminishes the safety position’s depth.
Jackson, who previously played with the Chicago Bears, is considered a game-changer for stabilising the Eagle’s defense mechanism. He could take up the strong safety role if C.J. Gardner-Johnson positions in the slot, or possibly overtake Reed Blankenship for the free safety spot.
An Overview of Jackson’s Career
Despite not making the All-Pro team since 2018, Jackson has significant experience with dealing with injuries, which have slowed down his progress in recent years. He lost 10 games in the past two seasons due to foot issues.
In 2023, he managed to record 37 combined tackles, 5 pass defenses, and an interception in 12 games. However, the Chicago Bears decided to release Jackson on February 15 with a year left on his 4-year, $58.4 million contract signed in January 2020.
Assessing Jackson’s Fit with the Eagles
There’s some doubt over whether Eagles’ safety Reed Blankenship can secure a position in the starting lineup. Despite this, Blankenship performed well in his 2023 opportunities, earning a 73.4 Pro Football Focus player grade.
The position of rookie defensive back Cooper DeJean may impact whether the Eagles desire another safety. DeJean’s versatility could allow him to play as a safety, nickel back, or outside cornerback. This creates potential for veteran defensive back C.J. Gardner-Johnson to play in the slot.
If the team decides to primarily assign non-safety roles to DeJean and Gardner-Johnson, acquiring a veteran like Jackson becomes necessary. Rookie cornerback Quinyon Mitchell’s status could dictate whether the Eagles enhance their secondary team, as Philadelphia picked him and then DeJean in the 2024 NFL draft.
A significant factor in Jackson’s favor is his familiarity with new Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. Jackson experienced his lone All-Pro season under Fangio’s oversight.
Questioning Jackson’s Suitability
While there’s a chance for the Eagles to sign a safety this summer, it’s not guaranteed that Jackson is the best choice. He hasn’t made the Pro Bowl in five years, and although injuries plagued the past two years, Jackson failed to achieve post-season recognition even in healthy seasons.
His in-play contributions have also been declining despite getting nearly as many snaps as in 2022. In 2023, he had a career-low 37 combined tackles, significantly down from his previous minimum of 51.
An alternative choice could be fellow veteran Justin Simmons, who also excelled in Fangio’s defense, earning four All-Pro and two Pro Bowl titles. Last season, Simmons was named second-team All-Pro and made the Pro Bowl with 70 combined tackles, 8 pass defenses, and three interceptions. His recent stellar performance may make him a more fitting option for the Eagles.
In conclusion, it is clear that the Philadelphia Eagles are considering various strategies to bolster their defense ahead of the new NFL season. Whether they choose Eddie Jackson, Justin Simmons, or another player, the hope will be that their years of experience will help guide the team to success.