The defensive tackle position is arguably the strongest on the roster. Fletcher Cox and Javon Hargrave have the potential to be the best duo in the league, hopefully we see it next season. Despite this, the Eagles have questions on the depth behind it.
Fletcher Cox
Cox is the second-best defensive tackle in the NFL, and although his numbers may not show it, his impact on the field is like no other. He attracts so much attention from offensive lines that he is usually double-teamed. That opens up one-on-one matchups for the others across the defensive line. A prime example of his importance on the team was the second game against Dallas. He went out injured, and the defense collapsed. His presence and pressure causes havoc.
Verdict: STAY. There is no other destination for Cox in 2021 other than on the Eagles roster. He is a blue-chip player that you keep hold of, rebuild or not. He is one of the most reliable players on the team, and having him on the field next year will help Defensive Coordinator Jonathon Gannon.
Javon Hargrave
Hargrave's time in Philadelphia got off to the worst possible start as he was injured. However, in the second half of the year, he grew into his role and looked good. He knows he needs to show more next season, and he is hungry to succeed.
Verdict: STAY. Hargrave recently restructured his contract, ensuring his place on the roster in 2021. The restructuring has saved the team $9.4 million and has helped push them closer under the cap. Securing Hargrave next season will be vital. He will be hopeful of toppling the 4.5 sacks, five tackles for loss and eight quarterback hits that he got last season.
Malik Jackson
Jackson was one of the big free agency signings in 2019 but got injured in the season opener and missed the entire season. He had a solid 2020 season, but for the money the Eagles paid him, it did not meet expectations.
Verdict: GO. The Eagles have restructured Jackson's contract and he is likely to be a post-June 1st designation.
Hassan Ridgeway
Ridgeway's time with the Eagles has been plagued by injuries, but when he has played, he has been solid. He was a starter during the first half of the 2019 season until his season-ending injury.
Verdict: STAY. Ridgeway was drafted by the Colts, so he should be known by some of Nick Sirianni's staff. His injury problems could go against him, but he has proven he can play when healthy and will be a good backup to Cox and Hargrave. The Eagles could let his injury problems work in their favour, by offering him a cheap one-year deal.
T.Y McGill
McGill featured in seven games last season as he filled in for the injuries the Eagles had on the defensive line. His cap number in 2021 is $850,000.
Verdict: DECIDED IN TRAINING CAMP. McGill will likely be a camp body and practice squad candidate. He has playing experience in the NFL and could prove to be good depth if needed in an injury crisis. The Eagles will likely draft a defensive lineman, which will hurt his chances of making it onto the main roster.
Raequan Williams
2020 was Williams' first year in the NFL, and he played in six games. He had a similar season to McGill, which may help his cause heading into pre-season.
Verdict: STAY. Williams was an undrafted rookie last year and gained some great experience with the lack of pre-season. That will help him heading into 2021, where he is likely placed on the practice squad. A cheap player that the Eagles can rely on if an injury crisis arises again.
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