Much of the attention surrounding the Philadelphia Eagles is around the offensive inconsistency and concerns with the play-calling. However, firmly among the reasons for the recent two-game losing streak is a lack of consistency from a struggling secondary.
The Eagles badly need an impact addition to reinforce a young group that lacks a clear third option at the corner position. With this in mind, it is time to contact the Cleveland Browns, who are clearly already selling off pieces. This has included parting ways with former starting quarterback Joe Flacco, who was sent to a division rival.
Very much putting it on the table that star players could be dealt, Denzel Ward would be a clear target for GM Howie Roseman. Philly fans are well aware that this front office isn't going to sit back and wait for the current pieces to figure things out. While this might be the case offensively with the needed talent already present, it is clear that a starting corner is needed, and Roseman has proven he will get the job done, opening the door for Ward ending the season with a competitive team.
The Eagles Must Attempt Blockbuster Deal to Land Star Corner Denzel Ward
Ward is under contract through the 2027 season and would be a needed veteran presence in the backfield. The only downside to the move is figuring out how to borrow from the future to fit Ward's deal under a tight salary cap. Still, Roseman has proven resourceful enough to get the deal done and still give the Eagles the needed future flexibility to lock up its remaining young stars.
Instantly, your defense becomes far more intimidating, and the secondary isn't an obvious weakness. Furthering this fit is the fact that Ward has only managed a 48 PFF rating through the first weeks of the season. Struggling to this level could open the door for a trade that wasn't previously as probable. Philly's system is in the perfect position for a player who previously has been among the league's elite.
It is the ultimate fit with a player who isn't playing to his typical standards while playing for a rebuilding Browns franchise. Roseman should have little trouble getting a deal started, with the only potential hiccup being creating the needed cap space.
Falling behind the Detroit Lions for the NFC's top seed should serve as a wake-up call for the front office that something must be done urgently. Bringing in Ward gives offensive coordinators Kevin Patullo time to figure things out and patches the lone hole in what has been an impressive defense. Leaving no question that Ward should be brought in ahead of a pivotal Week 7 matchup.