Philadelphia Eagles Roster 2018 Eagles Roster

Eagles Are Even Stronger

The 2017-18 season ended in the best way possible for the Philadelphia Eagles. The newly minted Super Bowl Champions of the world will look to defend their title and avoid the hangover that hasn't haunted past champions. Claiming this top stage intrigued the other 31 teams in the league, resulting in the loss of some key contributors in both the player of coaching departments. To etch their name amongst teams who have gone back-to-back in the Super Bowl, the Eagles will have to sort out their collection of players and new coaching staff.

The first coin toss comes at the quarterback position. While the team used all its chips to move up in the draft to claim Carson Wentz, a season-ending injury seemed to spell dismay for the team. Prevailing from the ashes was Nick Foles, a quarterback who was drafted by the Eagles in 2012. Foles claimed a Super Bowl victory and a game MVP title, reinventing the importance of a good back-up quarterback. The team chose to get both players on the active roster, declining trade offers and riches for Foles. The most important decision left in the hands of management this off-season is what to do with both quarterbacks. Foles knows the offense and remains healthy, while Wentz is nearing a full recovery. The team may opt to run Foles out the first few contests while Wentz continues to strengthen his arm and playmaking capabilities. This will be a storyline to follow heading into the season.

On offense, the team lost tight end Trey Burton, a key contributor to the success of the team in the red zone. The loss of Burton heightens the importance of the health of Zach Ertz. Ertz has found himself frequenting the injury list throughout his brief career, a staple he is going to have to rid himself of moving forward. The team also brought in Mike Wallace to bolster the aerial attack. Wallace has typically played the slot position, but downfield capabilities and consistency advantages lend for him to be an important role player on the team. The backfield returns a stacked combination with the likes of Jay Ajayi, Corey Clement, and Darren Sproles. Ajayi is the work horse, capable of being featured all three downs. Corey Clement and Darren Sproles are flex options that the team utilizes often. All three combine to bring a diversified backfield attack that few teams within the league can claim.

The defense returns a stout roster combination with very few areas of weakness. The defensive settings adapted by the team bode well for all contributors, diversifying looks and keeping all heads on a swivel. Since most of the playmakers remain, the team opted to use the draft to add depth at certain defensive positions. One of the most intriguing selections the team made came in the 3rd round of the draft. The team picked Josh Sweat out of Florida State. Originally projected as a 2nd round talent, Sweat brings agility and quickness to a defense that is heavy in the speed department. He gives the team a greater sense of variation in their creative sets and can cover all positions requested. His raw talents look to translate well into the pro game, marking this selection as a big boost to the team.

The return to the Championship game is the goal for the team heading into this season. Despite some key losses, the team was able to rebound nicely through the draft and role-playing changes. Addressing the quarterback situation and sticking to what got them there last year will be the key's that drive success for the team in 2018.