4 Eagles Philadelphia Can't Afford to Let Hit Free Agency in 2024

The Philadelphia Eagles have 19 pending free agents this offseason, per Spotrac. Here's a look at four of those names that they can't afford to let hit the open market in March.
DT Fletcher Cox is one of four Eagles that Philadelphia can't afford to let hit free agency next month.
DT Fletcher Cox is one of four Eagles that Philadelphia can't afford to let hit free agency next month. / Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports
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The Philadelphia Eagles head into the NFL offseason following a disappointing playoff exit. The good news is that general manager Howie Roseman has plenty of money to improve the roster to help compete for a Super Bowl title next season — over $20.8 million in cap space, to be specific, per Spotrac.

While that is quite the financial figure, the Eagles still have 19 expiring contracts to address before free agency opens in March. In other words, not everybody can be re-signed. Some pending free agents will have to be prioritized over others, regardless of how fans feel about certain players.

As Roseman prepares to make some tough decisions over the next few weeks, here are four Eagles that Philadelphia can't afford to let hit free agency this offseason.

1. DT Fletcher Cox

Since being drafted 12th overall in 2012, Fletcher Cox has cemented himself as one of the greatest Eagles of all time. The veteran defensive tackle is tied for playing the third-most games in a Philly jersey (188) and ranks fifth with 69.5 sacks. That's without mentioning how he's also been named All-Pro four times while making six Pro Bowls during his 12-year tenure.

Although the 2023 campaign was far from his best, Cox still proved to be an integral part of the defensive line. He finished the year with 15 solo tackles, 5.0 sacks, two defended passes, and a forced fumble across 15 starts. When it came to eligible interior defenders on Pro Football Focus, Cox ranked 35th as a pass rusher, 17th in run defense, and 21st overall.

With the offseason underway, Cox's future is up in the air. On one hand, the 33-year-old is contemplating retirement and taking his decision one day at a time. On the other hand, if he doesn't retire, he's slated to become a free agent in March.

If Cox is willing to play another season, the Eagles can't let it be with another team. The Mississippi State product is one of the most important players on defense. Philadelphia will have a tougher time stopping the ball if he leaves, which would also diminish their chances of winning Super Bowl LIX.