The Philadelphia Eagles have seen several changes come to the roster since free agency began earlier this week. Names like Jaelan Phillips, Reed Blankenship, and Nakobe Dean left town; meanwhile, Philadelphia has brought in Riq Woolen, Johnny Mundt, Jonathan Jones, and Arnold Ebiketie.
With more moves to come, it appears that the Eagles want to retain Dallas Goedert based on their latest decision. The Athletic's Zach Berman is reporting that Philadelphia is pushing Goedert's void date on his contract to March 16 after the deadline was set to go into effect on Friday.
As the Eagles continue to kick the Goedert-shaped can down the road, it seems obvious that they aren't ready to end this relationship just yet.
Eagles Clearly Want to Retain Dallas Goedert
Considering that pushing back the date delays Goedert's hitting the open market, it appears they desire to keep him around. It's important to note that if Philadelphia voided Goedert's contract, $20.5 million in dead money would be tacked onto the Eagles' cap.
With an extension, Philadelphia could lower that number, also keeping a talented weapon around. It's also worth noting that Goedert is agreeing to push these dates back, which is another sign he's open to returning.
Ever since being drafted in the second round of the 2018 NFL draft, Goedert has been a weapon in the offense, despite missing games in all eight seasons in Philadelphia. Nonetheless, he has compiled 409 receptions (558 targets) for 4,676 receiving yards and 35 touchdowns. Just last season, Goedert led the Eagles in receiving touchdowns (11).
While Goedert is 31 years old, he still has some good football left and would be an asset for this offense as both a blocker and a pass catcher. And Philadelphia's lack of interest in making other significant moves at the tight end position shows how they value Goedert.
The Eagles made big changes regarding the coaching staff, but it seems like keeping their collection of playmakers together is important. Keeping Goedert around shouldn't stop the Eagles from potentially adding another young tight end via the NFL draft, but having Goedert in that room would be beneficial for both that player and the Eagles' offense as a whole.
Philadelphia is still a Super Bowl contender, so they aren't in a rush to get rid of productive players. Goedert fits into that bucket, and if the Eagles wanted him gone, they would have allowed him to hit free agency already.
While it's still not ideal that both sides haven't agreed on terms for an extension, it appears they are actively attempting to extend the veteran TE's time in the City of Brotherly Love.