The newest NFL season unofficially began at about 4:00 pm on Tuesday. Free agency opened up, and, to no one's surprise, the flood gates burst open. Big names were moving across the country, with now ex-Patriot Wes Welker taking his talents to the Mile High City with the Broncos, and Super Bowl Champion Anquan Boldin being shipped to last year's second place team, the 49ers. Though they did not claim the so-called "Big Names," the Eagles made a few eye-catching moves (or head-scratching, depending on how full your glass is). Here are some of the highlights thus far:
Releases and Losses:
Nnamdi Asomugha (released before FA)
Cullen Jenkins (released before FA)
Michael Patterson (released before FA)
Demetress Bell (released before FA)
King Dunlap (2 years, $6 million max w/ Chargers)
Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie (1 year, $5 million w/ Broncos)
Re-signs and Additions:
Colt Anderson (tendered 1-year contract before FA)
Jon Dorenbos (signed 4-year deal)
James Casey (TE, former Texan, 3 years, $14.5 million)
Bradley Fletcher (CB, former Ram, 2 years, $5.2 million)
Isaac Sopoaga (T, former 49er, 3 years, $10 million)
Patrick Chung (CB, former Patriot, 3 years, $10 million)
It was my full intention to name this piece "Everybody Pat Chung Tonight," until I found this.
Jason Phillips (LB, former Panther, 2 years)
Cary Williams (CB, former Raven, 3 years, $17 million)
Kenny Phillips (S, former Giant, 1 year)
Connor Barwin (LB, former Texan, 6 years, $36 million)
Connor Barwin is, by far, the biggest name on this list. Some may say the Eagles must sign bigger names to be able to contend. However, a flashback to just a few years ago reminds us of a "Dream Team" that didn't amount to much.
As we get closer to the season, we'll take a closer look as to how each player will impact this team.