The Philadelphia Eagles entered the offseason planning to be aggressive in NFL free agency after a historic collapse in the second half of the season. With the tampering window open, it appears the Eagles are poised to try and poach talent from one of their biggest rivals.
Both the New York Giants and Dallas Cowboys failed to sign some of their best players to new contracts before the start of NFL free agency. With the likes of Tony Pollard, Tyron Smith, Stephon Gilmore, Xavier McKinney and Saquon Barkley becoming free agents, Philadelphia is prepared to spend big.
- Saquon Barkley stats 2023: 962 rushing yards, 3.9 yards per carry, 1,242 scrimmage yards, 10 touchdowns in 14 games
Related: NFL insider reveals potential Saquon Barkley contract cost
According to SNY’s Connor Hughes, the Eagles are circling around both Barkley and McKinney in NFL free agency. Furthermore, per Hughes, Philadelphia will be pursuing Barkley “very aggressively”, especially regarding money.
Barkley is hoping to become one of the highest-paid NFL players at his position. While his production and efficiency dipped in 2023, the Eagles’ front office and coaching staff have every reason to believe the Pro Bowl running back will rebound if he’s playing in a much better offense.
Related: Philadelphia Eagles free agent targets 2024
- Xavier McKinney stats 2023: 78 solo tackles, 11 pass deflections, 3 interceptions
McKinney is one of the most coveted defensive backs on the open market. In addition to being a versatile safety, McKinney was the only defensive back in the NFL who played 100 percent of his team’s snaps last season. While he hasn’t been named to the Pro Bowl since entering the league, McKinney is viewed as one of the top safeties in the NFL.
Importantly, there will be significant competition for both players. The Giants want to re-sign McKinney and there’s mutual interest, but he’s also drawing significant interest from the Green Bay Packers. As for Barkley, he is one of the running backs in NFL free agency that the Chicago Bears are targeting.
