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This time last year, the Philadelphia Eagles were making quick, hard moves during free agency like Pro Bowl RB Lesean McCoy's cuts in the open-field. One major signing, after another signing, after another. The front office were in a buffet line, picking and choosing whatever they wanted. Eagles fans drooled over each coveted free agent they picked up, from CB Nnamdi Asomugha to DT Cullen Jenkins to dare I say, QB Vince Young, the captain of the dream team ship. Although the Eagles picked up a bunch of talent, it didn't mix too well with a short off-season. Eagles fans received the opposite of what they were expecting to see, a lousy 8-8 season. To make matters worse, a Giants 2012 Superbowl victory.
This year's free agency is different. The Eagles seem to be less focused on talking and more focused on performing. Their free agency has been relatively quiet thus far, only making moves internally.
Firstly, it was the re-signing of Eagles WR Desean Jackson. As controversial and troublesome as he may be, Jackson, however, is a catalyst; he makes this offense go, obtaining double-team coverage and opening up space for other receivers on the team. When there is a big play needed, Jackson comes through. Knowing the risks involved, the Eagles rewarded him with a five-year, $51 million contract.Other deals that were under the radar were the re-signings of DE Trent Cole and OT Todd Herremans. Cole received a four-year extension, while Herremans with a three-year extension. Both kept their contract situations quiet and professional, unlike Jackson's public display of frustration. Yet, Jackson had reasonable points to express his emotions, only earning a lowly $600,000 last year.
The Eagles also made other roster moves, trading OT Winston Justice to the Colts and releasing veteran C Jamaal Jackson.
Next on their list will be re-signing McCoy to an extension. He is a franchise player that was the MVP of their offense last season. Surely, he deserves to be rewarded. Also, OT Evan Mathis is another Eagle that is testing free agency, last heard to be interested with the Baltimore Ravens.
Besides re-signing their own players, the Eagles need to be active as soon as possible in signing other players from different teams. Possible players may include WR Plaxico Burress, LB's Curtis Lofton, London Fletcher or Stephen Tulloch and S Laron Landry. Throw in RB Brandon Jacobs being a one-two punch with Lesean McCoy as well.
Now, let's see if PATIENCE really does PAY.
