The Philadelphia Eagles aren't done making moves in free agency. On Tuesday, they decided to sign two veteran free agents to fill major holes in the team's defense. Chris Long aims to revive the team's pass rush as a defensive end, while Patrick Robinson will fill one of the team's biggest remaining needs at the cornerback position.
Long in the tooth
Chris Long signed a two-year deal with the Eagles and expressed his excitement about joining the franchise on Twitter. The team was middle of the pack last season in terms of getting pressure on quarterbacks and recording sacks, getting just 34 on the season.
The team didn't seem to prioritize the need to fix that during this free agency period, but with a potential top pass rusher still available, the team decided to take the leap.
Long has recorded 58.5 sacks during his career with the St. Louis/Los Angeles Rams and the New England Patriots. He chose not to pursue a return to New England in free agency so that he can have a greater opportunity to start and play elsewhere. He is known to be an extremely professional player and should receive the opportunity he craves in Philadelphia, especially following the departure of Connor Barwin.
Here's to Mr. Robinson
Robinson, on the other hand, signed just a one-year deal in Philadelphia. He was released by the Indianapolis Colts after just one season in March following a disappointing year.
Injuries kept him out for more than half the season, but the former New Orleans Saint and San Diego Charger has ten interceptions and 59 passes defended during his NFL career.
Pass defense was seen as a serious issue for the Eagles and Robinson will get every opportunity to try and solve it. The team has been scouting defensive backs in both free agency and the NFL Draft, so the one-year deal likely won't preclude the team from adding depth and potential in the form of college prospects. Last year, the team showed promise under a new coach and quarterback; they gave him targets in free agency, so it was time to address the other side of the ball.
