According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Eagles have signed CB Cre’Von LeBlanc to a one-year contract extension.
LeBlanc suffered a foot injury during Training Camp that ripped the rug from under him. The 24-year old started the Summer with eyes on a potential starting nickel role after closing out the 2018 season in impressive fashion when thrown into the deep end. The injury could keep him out until November, meaning the corner is headed to IR.
The one-year extension not only shows a vote of confidence in LeBlanc, but also ensures that when he returns from IR, he will do so without the worry of where his long-term future lies.
Since joining the Eagles during a time of dire need, ‘Captain Cre’Von’ has rapidly become a fan favorite. From being tasked with shutting down Odell Beckham Jr in the final moments of a tense encounter, and starting inside against the unpredictable L.A. Rams offense, to his beautiful interception against the New Orleans Saints, LeBlanc has passed all tests with flying colors.
LeBlanc finished the season with PFF grade of 72.3 and 32nd among cornerbacks. He also gave the defense the scrappy fighter they needed last year and a real diamond in the rough for this defensive scheme.
Now, LeBlanc can rest up without the pressure of having to return and make an instant impact. He’s shown enough to earn the Eagles trust and the team have rewarded him buy guaranteeing his 2018 salary.
The only question remaining is surrounding his ceiling. It’s clear that the Eagles are really high on LeBlanc, who ended 2018 with 24 tackles for the Eagles. Can he really come in and fight for that starting nickel spot? If he did return late in the year, there is a chance he’d ball out once more and generate an attractive free-agent market. This vote of confidence may propel him past the setback of an unfortunate foot injury, and begin generating positive momentum upon his return. Momentum which will now firmly keep him in Philadelphia’s young and emerging secondary.
Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports
