As of March 11th, NFL Free Agency has gone underway, and teams are now negotiating with players on contracts. This time of the year is always fascinating for teams and fans that get the joy of re-signing key players and the sadness that comes with seeing them sign somewhere else.

Being an Eagles fan, I must feel a little bit hurt by this free agency, although what has happened was to be expected. In just one day, the Eagles lost multiple defensive pieces, including Darius Slay, Milton Williams, Josh Sweat, and Isaiah Rodgers, through free agency. Nevertheless, we have made key signings, including All-Pro Linebacker Zack Baun.

These names may seem detrimental to our defense, however, Howie Roseman and the Eagles organization have a plan to continue our team’s success next year. We have a solid youth group ready to step up into bigger roles next season. Recently, the Eagles organization has been all-in on 22-year-old Kelee Ringo, who is set to replace Darius Slay at cornerback. As for the defensive line, 23-year-old Moro Ojomo and 2nd year Jalyx Hunt appear to be next up. Ojomo and Hunt had the highest pass rush win rates in the Super Bowl last season. The Eagles’ young core is ready to make a lasting impact in years to come.

While writing this article, Howie sent CJ Gardner-Johnson to the Texans for Kenyon Green and a draft pick. It is eye-opening to see Gardner-Johnson get traded away, as he was a valuable member of the returning defense. However, it seems that the Eagles are doing this for financial reasons: to focus on the young core and pay them accordingly.

As of March 13th, the Eagles have only made one external free agency signing. On Wednesday, Howie made his first external signing, giving AJ Dillon, a former Packers running back, a one-year deal. We’ll see how much longer that holds as we know Howie loves to make moves.