The Philadelphia Eagles had a big surprise come their way when Za'Darius Smith abruptly retired earlier this week. That opened up a hole along the defensive front, which is why fans are asking for the team to make a move at the edge position.
On Wednesday, Dave Zangaro of NBC Sports Philadelphia reported that the Eagles signed TE Jaheim Bell and DE Titus Leo to their practice squad. The addition of Leo seems to be a depth addition for this group. Given their desperate need for more juice off the edge, this can't be the only move that Philly makes.
With the trade deadline on Nov. 4, fans should expect more movement at this position.
Eagles Edge Addition on Wednesday Has to Be a Hint at a Future Move
Leo was drafted in the sixth round of the 2023 NFL draft by the Indianapolis Colts. He eventually got waived and joined the New England Patriots in 2024. Leo suited up in four games with the Pats, playing in 77% of the special teams snaps and 3% of the defensive snaps during that stint. The lineman has only secured four total tackles and one TFL in his NFL career.
These numbers aren't inspiring when you think about how the Eagles are tied for 29th in the NFL in team sacks (9). They know that they need to make an addition to that room, and they are gauging the trade market. In a report for ESPN, Jeremy Fowler shared that Philadelphia is seeking help on the trade market.
"The Eagles are lurking in the trade market, as always. People I've talked to around the league believe cornerback or edge rusher (or both) could be a focus at the deadline. Keep in mind that Philly has already made several trades -- acquiring corner Jakorian Bennett, wide receiver John Metchie III and running back Tank Bigsby -- and those moves haven't paid off yet."Jeremy Fowler
Nolan Smith Jr. (triceps) and Ogbo Okoronkwo (triceps) are both on IR. The Eagles are relying on Azeez Ojulari, Jalyx Hunt, and Joshua Uche to get after the QB off the edge, and they haven't been able to answer the call yet.
Philadelphia understands the importance of having a quality pass rush, and the front office knows the players currently on the roster aren't enough. That's why the Eagles are making calls around the league, and fans should view this Leo signing as just a supplement to a move that could come down the line.