Philadelphia Eagles: 3 thoughts on the Eric Wilson signing

Wilson should play outside linebacker in 2021, not middle linebacker.

Building off the idea that Wilson isn’t some sort of downhill thumper, the best spot for the newly signed linebacker is likely going to be on the outside in 2021. Wilson is at his best when asked to drop back into coverage, simultaneously allowed to avoid running backs charging up the middle of the field.

This poses a bit of a problem when constructing the Philadelphia Eagles starting defense moving forward, as their biggest weakness is arguably middle linebacker, not outside linebacker. Both Alex Singleton and Davion Taylor are young pieces that the team would prefer to have see the field a lot in 2021, which means one of this trio will likely have to kick inside for the upcoming season.

Taking into account Wilson’s poor tackling and Davion’s lack of NFL experience, it will probably be Singleton who’s asked to suit up as the team’s starting middle linebacker on Sundays. As much of a feel-good story as Singleton was this past season, the idea of him being the Eagles’ primary MLB in 2021 – facing off against the likes of Ezekiel Elliott and a returning Saquon Barkley – will probably lead to some issues.

While the addition of Eric Wilson definitely makes the Eagles’ linebacker depth chart look a tad prettier due to his four years of NFL experience and his 100+ tackles in 2020, his specific traits don’t really translate over to the middle of the field. A roster spot that the Eagles have neglected for years now.