Eagles May Revamp Roster with Trade for Colts Linebacker
Philadelphia could be active in the trade market
The Philadelphia Eagles could benefit from strengthening their defense.
Although the Eagles are in a solid position three weeks into the NFL season, they are notably thin at the linebacker position. After trading star player Haason Reddick to the New York Jets during the offseason, the team is working to find suitable replacements for his role.
Reddick earned Pro Bowl honors in each of his last two seasons with the Eagles and placed fourth in the NFL Defensive Player of the Year voting in 2022 after recording 16 sacks. While Philadelphia has found some temporary solutions this season, there is still room for another move to bolster the defense.
Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report compiled a list of the top 10 likely trade candidates and potential destinations, mentioning the Eagles in connection with Colts starting linebacker E.J. Speed.
“The Colts are currently 0-2, and while they shouldn’t be throwing in the towel this early, they may reach that point,” Knox said. “If that happens before the trade deadline, linebacker E.J. Speed could be on the move. Speed, who had a breakout season with 102 tackles last year, is set to become a free agent in 2025. He’s a fast, physical, versatile linebacker who would likely attract trade interest even if Indianapolis isn’t actively looking to sell.”
“The Eagles should consider acquiring Speed due to his versatility in defending all areas of the field, stopping the run, and covering the pass. While Philadelphia invested heavily in retooling its defense this offseason, they are still waiting for a true turnaround. The team struggled to stop the run in Monday’s loss to the Atlanta Falcons, and their pass defense faltered at a critical moment, allowing Atlanta to drive for a late go-ahead touchdown.”
At 29 years old, Speed totaled 102 tackles last season. So, why not make a move for him?
