Nick Foles is slated to start for the Eagles in 2014, but who will be his primary backup is the question (Image Courtesy of Philly.com)
Over the next couple of weeks, Eagledelphia will be addressing the Eagles free agents needs while evaluating producing a position-by-position analysis.
The first area to be addressed: Quarterback.
The Eagles may have found their quarterback of the future in Nick Foles. Foles started 14 games last season, including the playoffs. He threw for 2,891 yards with 27 touchdowns and two interceptions, which was good enough to be a first alternative for the Pro Bowl.
The Arizona product would make the Pro Bowl and take home the offensive MVP award to go along with the two NFC offensive player of the week awards and an NFC offensive player of the month award. Foles also tied an NFL record with seven touchdown passes in a game, week six versus Oakland.
Behind Foles is second-year man Matt Barkley. The Eagles traded up in the fourth round to draft Barkley, who failed to impress in limited action. The former USC Trojan is now one year removed from a shoulder injury that damaged his throwing motion and hurt his arm strength.
G.J. Kinne also remains on the roster after being signed to a reserve/future contract. The Eagles re-signed Kinne to the practice squad during the season after he was released during training camp.
With former starting quarterback Michael Vick entering unrestricted free agency, the Eagles will be in the market to add a veteran quarterback during the offseason. Below are three possible veteran additions as well as a quarterback to keep an eye on.
1. Josh McCown. McCown came out of retirement to back up Jay Cutler in Chicago. As Cutler went down with injuries, McCown threw for 13 touchdowns and one interception and led the Bears to a 3-4 record. McCown has said that he wants to return to Chicago.
2. Tarvaris Jackson. The former second round pick is coming off of winning the Super Bowl with the Seattle Seahawks. He will be looking for an opportunity to play, but has failed to impress in stops with Minnesota, Buffalo, and Seattle, twice. Jackson has the attributes the Chip Kelly looks for, a big arm and mobility.
3. Chad Henne. The former Dolphin and Jaguar is a consummate professional who has spent time as both a starter and backup. Henne, who grew up outside of Philadelphia, is likely still looking to catch on as a starter somewhere, but is best suited as a backup at this stage of his career.
Keep an eye on: Matt Cassel. The veteran has the ability to void his contract with Minnesota on Friday. By doing so, Cassel will forfeit his $3.7 million and opportunity at a starting position.
Hal Greenblatt covers the Eagles for Eagledelphia. Follow him on Twitter: @HMGreenblatt
