Final Position Analysis

As much as I would like to continue position analysis in the way I’ve been doing it, I want to wrap it up so that I can focus on the upcoming free agency period and draft.

Linebackers

The Eagles finally have a solid young group that should continue to develop. Chris Gocong improved as the season went on, and by the end of the year became a solid pass rusher. Also, look for Gocong to continue to play defensive end some plays. Omar Gaither was solid at middle linebacker and as a defensive leader, but he will never become a playmaker. After the season, defensive coordinator Jim Johnson made it clear that Gaither will start training camp next season as the backup to 2007 third-round draft pick Stewart Bradley. Bradley did not see much playing time until late last season, but when he finally came in he looked very good. Bradley showed the playmaking ability at middle linebacker a defense needs to be special. He stopped the runningback at crucial moments and forced turnovers. Takeo Spikes manned the weakside, and while solid, he has lost the playmaking ability he once had. Undrafted rookie Akeem Jordan filled in for Spikes and looked good racking up tackles.

The verdict: The Eagles have some young linebackers who could turn out to be very special. This off season will be a crucial one for these players

Cornerback

Sheldon Brown

Brown was the Eagles best corner in ’07. He covers well and hits like a truck. However, Brown cannot create turnovers. Lito Sheppard is a star when healthy. The problem is, he is never healthy. Last season was a waste for Sheppard because nagging injuries held him back. There have been rumors swirling that the Eagles want to trade Sheppard this offseason. Don’t read into those rumors too much. If Sheppard can stay healthy, he is a valuable key to this defense. There is not much behind these two players, and that is a concern that the Eagles will address. Nickle-back Will James started most of the season due to Sheppard’s injuries and played poorly. He is a free agent this year and likely will not be back with the team. Joselio Hanson is a young corner that the team is high on. Hanson is a solid fourth or fifth corner, but should not play any higher than that on the depth chart. Hanson is a restricted free agent, but will likely be back with the team.

The verdict: Right now, cornerback is a shakey position.

Safety

As expected, safety was a position of concern. Brian Dawkins was injured early in the season, and probably getting a little too old. Next season might be his last. Quentin Mikell had a surprisingly solid year, and will likely have an expanded role next season, no matter what the team does to the position in the offseason. Sean Considine played poorly before getting hurt for the season, and will almost definitely only play a supporting role next season. J.R. Reed was a surprise in his second stint with the Eagles. Reed put some big hits on ball carriers and wasn’t bad in run support. Reed is a restricted free agent and could be worth a low tender.

The verdict: Safety will be addressed this offseason. The search for Brian Dawkin’s replacement continues.