Eagles Predicted to Sign Chiefs CB L'Jarius Sneed, Analyst Says
The Philadelphia Eagles defense went from being one of the NFL's most feared units to one of the worst in a year. While part of that decline will be blamed on the hiring of Sean Desai to replace Jonathan Gannon, an aging secondary could also be pointed out.
With both of the Eagles' starting outside cornerbacks, Darius Slay and James Bradbury, being on the wrong side of 30 and the latter's contract set to expire, it makes sense why many are projecting them to upgrade at that position this offseason. While recent mock drafts have had the Eagles addressing the issue, a new prediction has them making a blockbuster signing in free agency.
Dec 25, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs cornerback L'Jarius Sneed (38) is introduced against the Las Vegas Raiders prior to a game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.
Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
ESPN's NFL analyst Matt Bowen recently predicted that the Eagles would sign current Kansas City Chiefs star L'Jarius Sneed this offseason.
"Upgrading the cornerback position is an offseason priority in Philadelphia," Bowen writes. "With Sneed, the Eagles land one of the top veteran free agents, who has the coverage skills and ability to produce in Vic Fangio's system."
The former fourth-round pick out of Louisiana Tech has developed into one of the top corners available this offseason. After starting his career in the slot as a nickel, he became a full-time boundary corner for the Chiefs this past season.
In 16 games, Sneed totaled 78 tackles, five for a loss, with 14 passes defended and two interceptions, as he raised his market value to $16.3 million annually, according to the latest Spotrac projections. Spotrac predicts that Sneed will get a four-year contract worth $65 million this offseason using that market projection.
This raises the question of whether Philadelphia can realistically afford the 27-year-old cornerback.
As things currently stand, the Eagles have $19 million in cap space, according to OverTheCap. However, there is always the possibility of making more room, like agreeing to a contract extension with star edge rusher Haason Reddick, which would free up an additional $11 million.
