The Philadelphia Eagles went into the offseason facing some important questions. While they solved one issue by bringing in Sean Mannion as their new offensive coordinator, they created more when rumors emerged that Landon Dickerson was considering retirement after a string of injuries.
The Eagles reportedly received an answer to that issue on Thursday, as Verizon NFL host Derrick Gunn posted that Dickerson is planning to return in 2026 “despite frustrations with health issues.” Although Dickerson is returning, there’s a good chance things could fall apart when he ramps up for next year.
This means the Eagles could use some insurance when free agency begins next month, and they could target New Orleans Saints offensive lineman Dillon Radunz as a player who could provide extra depth along the offensive line.
Eagles Should Target Saints OL Dillon Radunz as Landon Dickerson Insurance in Free Agency
Radunz hasn’t lived up to expectations since being selected by the Tennessee Titans in the second round of the 2021 draft. In three of his five seasons, the North Dakota State product finished with an overall grade under 50, including an overall grade of 48.5 in 2025, according to Pro Football Focus.
While he’s had some issues, Radunz has been a serviceable pass protector. He allowed 23 pressures and one sack on 408 pass-blocking snaps while primarily playing left guard for the Saints last year. Despite allowing 11 total sacks between the 2023 and 2024 seasons, it seems like he has ironed those issues out with more playing time.
At this point in his career, Radunz is probably overmatched as a full-time starter. But he could be a valuable reserve. He started his career playing tackle for the Titans before being moved inside, and that experience could help Philadelphia if Lane Johnson gets hurt.
Yet, it’s Dickerson who is the biggest concern. He suffered two ACL tears during his collegiate career, including one that ended his time at Alabama during the 2020 SEC Championship Game. Then, ankle and foot injuries followed in his first couple of seasons in the NFL before he suffered a knee injury during the 2024 problems and a meniscus injury last preseason.
Despite all the injuries, Dickerson has played in 78 career games and made 77 career starts, including 15 starts last season. But the end can come quickly for offensive linemen. The Detroit Lions were in a good place with starting center Frank Ragnow at this time last year, but the former All-Pro chose to retire during offseason team activities, leaving the team scrambling to replace him throughout last season.
This is why the Eagles would be wise to find some depth in free agency and Radunz could be a strong target.