Linebacker James Harrison is officially on the market after being released from the Pittsburgh Steelers last week. After nine strong seasons with the team, the Pro Bowl defensive standout is now in search of a new home. As the Philadelphia Eagles look to improve on all areas of defense, they could be interested in grabbing the veteran. Harrison and his agent, Bill Parise, are considering the Eagles as a desirable landing spot.
"They are one of the teams that we have talked about. I think the Eagles would be a good fit with his skill set and what they want to do there," Parise said.
Harrison is known for his meanness and aggressive style of play on the field. He was released by the Steelers over the weekend. During his time in Pittsburgh, he earned five Pro Bowl nods and two Super Bowl trophies. He was supposed to make $7.6 million this season, but the Steelers are strapped for cash and were forced to release their star linebacker in order to make cap space room. The Eagles currently have $30 million of cap room and can afford to sign a few free agents during the offseason.
Head coach Chip Kelly intends on running a version of the 3-4 defensive scheme and Harrison could be an asset to that system. Harrison believes the Eagles are in a rebuilding year, but will not be for long. However, in a season where the team must produce better results than 2012, will they take a chance on the 34-year old veteran?
Harrison had a total of 70 tackles in 2012, including six sacks and two forced fumbles. He was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year after the 2008 season, becoming the first undrafted player to win the award. However, in recent years, Harrison has become more known for the amount of fines he has garnered from the NFL than his playing abilities. Harrison has earned several penalties and fines for helmet-to-helmet hits placed on other players including receiver Mohammed Massaquoi and Josh Cribbs that left both players with concussions.
Signing Harrison could be a rewarding move for the Eagles. It would give them veteran presence on a rebuilding defense along with a productive player that can get results.