One of the Philadelphia Eagles' biggest needs entering this offseason happened to be one of their biggest strengths throughout 2024, as the team utilized dominance in the trenches to win the Super Bowl.
However, once Mekhi Becton left in free agency for the Los Angeles Chargers, to say nothing of aging starters, there suddenly was a big need at offensive line. Even Eagles legend Jason Kelce noted on Thursday that he was concerned about the depth and how it could impact the offense.
General manager Howie Roseman must've been listening to Kelce because he quickly signed a versatile lineman with whom Philadelphia is already familiar.
T Matt Pryor is returning to the #Eagles on a one-year deal, an NFL source said.
— Jeff McLane (@Jeff_McLane) March 27, 2025
Eagles Reunite With Matt Pryor After Losing Mekhi Becton in Free Agency
According to Eagles insider Jeff McLane, tackle Matt Pryor is returning to the Eagles on a one-year deal. Originally a sixth-round pick by Philadelphia in the 2018 NFL Draft, Pryor spent the first two seasons of his career with the team before playing with the Indianapolis Colts, San Francisco 49ers, and Chicago Bears.
He started 10 games in 2019 and can play every position on the line save center, making him a valuable chess piece for head coach Nick Sirianni to deploy. Pryor ranked an impressive 31st among 135 qualified guards for the Bears at Pro Football Focus last year, posting the eighth-best pass-blocking grade in the database.
We'll see if the organization views him as a depth piece or a potential challenger for a starting spot against Tyler Steen. However, it was important for Roseman to shore up the line with someone who can theoretically start. It also helps that Pryor already knows the organization, so he should be able to adjust quickly to his "new" surroundings.
Once again, the Eagles are preparing for a deep run and seem one step ahead of the competition. Thanks to this signing, the offensive line is less of a need, allowing Roseman to go after the best players available in next month's 2025 NFL Draft.