Philadelphia Eagles sign veteran safety Jaquiski Tartt

Howie Roseman and the Philadelphia Eagles have made yet another roster move in an offseason full of stellar additions. After bringing in players like Haason Reddick, A.J. Brown, and James Bradberry, the team has now made an addition at safety, bringing in a hardened veteran with playoff — and Super Bowl — experience. The Eagles have signed former 49ers safety Jaquiski Tartt to a one-year deal in hopes that he will help solidify the depth in the safety room.

Earlier this offseason, the Eagles made the decision to re-sign Anthony Harris, who started 14 games for the Birds and was, frankly, a bit underwhelming. Also of note, the team decided against re-signing Rodney McLeod, who had been with the team since 2016 and was a key member of the 2017-18 Super Bowl team.

Parting ways with McLeod meant that the team’s safety room would be led by Harris, Marcus Epps, and K’Vonn Wallace. Fans have certainly seen worse, but it’s not particularly encouraging either. This is where Jaquiski Tartt comes into play. The seven-year veteran provides a unique presence for this safety group that no other member can.

Jaquiski Tartt brings experience, effort, and attitude to a Philadelphia Eagles safety group in serious need.

While he was likely brought in as a depth piece, it wouldn’t be overly shocking to see Tartt get some extended playing time for the Eagles. While the team seems infatuated with Marcus Epps — and there’s some reason to be — the young safety is still inexperienced, and there’s no guarantee that the success he saw last season will be replicated. Additionally, Anthony Harris’ starting spot may not be a certainty anymore — though Epps is his more direct competition as they both predominantly play in the box. While he will likely enter camp as the starter, the ice is thin enough that Tartt could overtake him.

One of the major hangups with Tartt, however, is the difficulty he has staying healthy. He has missed 33 games in his seven-year career averaging just over 11 starts per season. This lack of health could very well lead to a part-time role, but whether he starts or comes in as a reserve, he will make an impact on this team both on and off the field.