NFL free agency is off and running, and we’re keeping track of every major signing, trade and release of the 2021 offseason, with analysis from our NFL Nation reporters and grades from our experts. The new league year begins March 17 at 4 p.m. ET, which means free-agent signings can be made official after that. The first round of the 2021 NFL draft begins April 29 on ESPN.
The Philadelphia Eagles are tight on salary-cap space but they know how to get creative with contract structures and will find a way to add players. The defensive secondary is expected to be a focus. Defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon specializes in defensive backs and is expected to build his defense largely around that group. Philadelphia needs a starting cornerback to work opposite Darius Slay. Wide receiver remains unsettled and the room could use a veteran presence with DeSean Jackson and Alshon Jeffery now off the team. Jalen Hurts is the lone quarterback on the roster at the moment. At least one QB will be added through free agency or trade between now and the start of the season.
Here’s a breakdown of every 2021 NFL free-agent signing by the Eagles, and how each will impact the upcoming season:
The Eagles plan to sign the former Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety, according to a source.
What it means: The Eagles finally get on the free-agency board with the signing of Adams, who contributed primarily on special teams for the Super Bowl champion Bucs last season. Originally signed as an undrafted free agent out of Connecticut in 2016, he has started 32 games over five seasons with the Giants and Bucs, and has six career interceptions. This should be viewed as a depth signing for a secondary that certainly needs it.
What’s the risk: This is expected to be a low-cost signing, so there’s little risk involved. The bigger problem would be if the Eagles didn’t further address the secondary, given Jalen Mills has left for the New England Patriots and fellow starting safety Rodney McLeod is coming off December ACL surgery. Both safety and cornerback could use some love.