The Philadelphia Eagles have just announced the signing of veteran Safety, Andrew Sendejo. The 31-year old has signed a one-year deal with the team. So what does this mean for the Eagles secondary?:
Prior to his release, Sendejo was one of the Vikings’ longest tenured players, starting 61 games since he was signed back in November of 2011. After his season came to an end following a groin injury sustained against the Eagles in week 5, the future looked bleak. His contract carried a $5.5M option and given how deep the Safety market suddenly became, that kind of money (which would put him inside the top 25 at his position) didn’t interest Minnesota, given their depth.
However, Sendejo has been a starting strong safety for quite some time now, totaling 31 passes defensed, 7 picks and a forced fumble, to go with his 432 tackles.
Known as a hard-hitter, Sendejo is a true tone setter in the secondary and while he may not carry the same reputation as some of the more notable free agents, he will be among the more ‘bang for your buck’ available. Prior to his injury, he was coming off of a career-high 80 tackles in 2017, along with a career-best 7 passes defensed.
He’s definitely an upgrade over Corey Graham, although the two are very different in their playing style. Sendejo almost matches up with Rodney McLeod perfectly, which is probably a breath of fresh air, all things considered.
More than anything though, this buys the Eagles time. With this and the decision to retain Ronald Darby, the Eagles secondary is as complete as it can be as the franchise prepares for a huge NFL Draft. Many have wondered whether or not Avonte Maddox will transition to Safety and all this move does is open up that conversation. If this versatile DB is to move to the top line of defense full-time, then learning under Sendejo, McLeod and Jenkins for a season is the perfect way to put on the training wheels.
Maddox did more than hold his own when asked to fill in at Safety last year, but this move could arguably tick off the draft need altogether. Why would the Eagles spend a draft pick on a Safety when they have Maddox in the wings and a group of ‘fringe-starter’ corners all vying for a spot on the final 53.
From a business perspective, the Eagles are now in a perfect spot. There’s no pressure to re-stock the defensive backfield, with two extremely capable starters holding the fort while Jenkins wreaks havoc in the box and a flurry of versatile young defensive backs all ready to do whatever it takes to earn a right to that role when their time arises.
Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
