New England Patriots inside linebacker Brandon Spikes was the best 3-4 run stuffer in the NFL in 2013. However, with an abundance of in-house talent at the linebacker position, the Patriots are not expected to re-sign him. Adding Spikes would immediately upgrade the Eagles' porous rush defense.
Arthur Jones is not expected back with the Baltimore Ravens in 2014. Jones is one of the few 3-4 defensive ends who can stuff run plays while consistently pressuring the quarterback on passing downs. The Eagles need a versatile defensive end to free up Fletcher Cox and Trent Cole on the edges.
Jairus Byrd publicly announced his frustration with the Buffalo Bills after the team hit their star safety with the franchise tag in 2013. Byrd has already warned the Bills that if they franchise him again in 2014, the relationship will be irreparable. Rather than risking the possibility of a holdout and the inevitable locker room distraction, look for the Bills to let Byrd test the free agent market this offseason.
Byrd is one of only a handful of two-way safeties in the NFL that excel against both the run and the pass. With Eagles struggling in both departments in 2013, Byrd would be an ideal fit for the team's beleaguered secondary.
Reports have surfaced that Eric Decker is intent on leaving the Denver Broncos to be paid like a No. 1 wide receiver. At first glance, Decker's productivity would seem inflated by catching passes from Peyton Manning. Upon further examination, Decker's targets were comparatively low, and his efficiency, particularly in the red zone, was near the top of the league.
The Eagles can pay Eric Decker more than the Broncos, and he is perfectly suited to take over Riley Cooper's role as the X receiver. Pairing Decker with DeSean Jackson would provide Philadelphia with explosive athleticism on both sides of the field and truly unlock the potential of Chip Kelly's offensive attack.
The Miami Dolphins are not expected to hit Pro Bowl cornerback Brent Grimes with the franchise tag. Grimes graded out as the No. 2 cornerback in the NFL on Pro Football Focus in 2013 and would be hands-down the best cornerback on the market if Miami lets him walk.
