Philadelphia Eagles: 5 former Colts to keep an eye on this offseason
By David Esser
Malik Hooker, S
Another player who could be looking for a “prove it” deal in 2021, former Colts safety Malik Hooker is coming off an Achilles injury as well. Considering the Eagles overall weak secondary and the fact that they just hired Jonathan Gannon – the Colts old defensive backs coach – to be their new defensive coordinator, it’s a fairly easy connection to make.
Similar to Mack and the running back situation, the Eagles need safety depth and Hooker might need a job in 2021.
Hooker’s career has been riddled with injury left and right, so he’s definitely no sure thing back there at safety. The Colts specifically declined his fifth-year option due to the level of uncertainty and inconsistency that has plagued his play the last couple of seasons.
The Eagles, however, don’t really have the opportunity to be picky with their additions this offseason. Rodney McLeod might not be ready for Week 1 as he recovers from a torn ACL that he suffered late this past regular season, and Philadelphia has few options behind him. K’Von Wallace, Grayland Arnold, and Marcus Epps are all young and unreliable, and Jalen Mills could be departing as well.
If Hooker’s market is completely dry this offseason, him reuniting with his former coach in Gannon on a veteran’s minimum contract would make a lot of sense. Hooker gets the opportunity to prove his worth, and the Eagles get themselves a starting safety for the 2021 season.
Oh, and Malik Hooker grew up in Pennsylvania! Hometown discount anyone?