NFL training camp is just around the corner. For the Philadelphia Eagles, a promising off-season has given way to the eyes of the fanbase locking onto training camp. Several players will go into this Summer knowing it’s very much all-or-nothing. Today we look at those among the offensive and defensive lines that could be looking at their final years in Philadelphia.
Andre Dillard
Dillard is probably on his last legs in Philadelphia this season. Following the former first round pick losing the starting position battle to Jordan Mailata, Dillard has been labeled as a bust over the last couple of years.
While he did play well in parts last season when Lane Johnson was hurt, Dillard’s inability to get a starting job in Philadelphia is a major issue for the Eagles and the left tackle. His inability to switch to right tackle also doesn’t leave much room for cross training either.
While Jordan Mailata is on a very team-friendly deal for a soon-to-be All-Pro, the Eagles declined the fifth year option on Dillard. That means the former Washington St. product is most likely in his final year in Philadelphia. If Andre Dillard doesn’t show the ability to perform at right tackle this off-season, we could be seeing the left tackle traded before the season even starts.
Derek Barnett
We talk about Jalen Reagor getting a lot of chances, but that pales in comparison to the number of chances Derek Barnett has had.
More penalties than sacks in his career, an inability to consistently rush the passer and a low football I.Q. has all but given Barnett his last legs in Philadelphia.
After the Eagles let their former first round pick walk in free agency, Barnett signed a one year $2 million deal back with the team. If anything, it was a sign just how poor the rest of the league thought of Barnett. The Tennessee product is on his last chance, not just with the Eagles, but arguably in the NFL as well.
If the penalties continue and the lack of sacks show, Derek Barnett might be out of the NFL entirely.
Brandon Graham and Fletcher Cox
The two stalwarts on the defensive line make this list. While you may be surprised, the contract future for both is the reason they are on the list.
Fletcher Cox was released and then signed back for a one year $14 million deal, while Brandon Graham is in the final year of his deal. The Eagles brought in Jordan Davis and Haason Reddick to eventually replace both defensive linemen, but they could always push that departure date back if one or both have big seasons.
Both Graham and Cox have been major contributors to the Eagles franchise, but from a practical standpoint, it makes no sense to offer 30+ year old linemen the contracts they have.
Only a big season will help alleviate that.
Isaac Seumalo
Isaac Seumalo is entering the final year of his contract with Philadelphia, and like Dillard might be the odd man out heading into training camp.
The arrival, and dominance of Landon Dickerson has moved Seumalo to the right guard position. A position battle between Seumalo, and former fifth round pick Jack Driscoll is probably the only starting role up for grabs on offense. If Seumalo were to lose, he could be joining Dillard as a potential trade option.
Photo by Andy Lewis/Icon Sportswire
