It didn’t take long for the Eagles to begin their expected salary cap purge, as the team confirm that they have released defensive end, Connor Barwin.
Roster Move: #Eagles release DE Connor Barwin. pic.twitter.com/tTiiAIUck7
— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) March 9, 2017
The move frees up a huge $7.75M in cap space, which is vital for the team if they are to make any kind of splash in a free agency market that’s already beginning to escape them. The Eagles had been shopping Connor Barwin for quite some time and the talks increased during the NFL Combine. The Packers and Colts were said to be among those interested, but with a report just yesterday claiming that the team are still shopping Barwin and Mychal Kendricks, it appeared as though releasing them could be the more realistic opportunity.
Despite his strong play, his production has seen a constant dip since a stunning 2014 season, one where he recorded a personal best 14.5 sacks. In 2016, the Eagles defense went back to a four man front, something Barwin hadn’t played in for several years. This led to his worst statistical year as an Eagle, where he had 34 tackles, 5 sacks, 1 forced fumble and failed to make the impact, Eagles fans have come to expect from him.
Over the past four years, Barwin has been a force for the Eagles defense, racking up 159 total tackles, 31.5 sacks, 1 interception, and 6 forced fumbles in 64 games. Emerging as a fan favorite and someone who contributes massively in the community, there is no doubting his presence will be missed..but for the Eagles, the cap number was simply too large for a player who couldn’t find the consistency needed to shine.
Okay, implications aside. It’s time we all get a little bit emotional about Barwin’s departure.
Thank you, Connor.https://t.co/Fi0OU9tQOw pic.twitter.com/nwsvwuq3Ck
— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) March 9, 2017
Thank you, Connor. pic.twitter.com/cchFH41Q1s
— Eagles Community (@EaglesComms) March 9, 2017
