Now that the Philadelphia Eagles have some what sorted out their quarterback situation, the next position to bring up in the trade rumors will be the cornerbacks. The Eagles secondary was one of the most hyped units prior to the 2012 season and ended being one of the most overrated and insonsistent in the league. Nnamdi Asomugha and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie are the two biggest names on the Philadelphia defense and after coming off their worst season yet, might find themselves out of the city of brotherly love sooner rather than later.
The Philadelphia Inquirer is reporting that the two one time "shutdown cornerbacks" might not be returning to the team for 2013.
"If the coaching staff believes both players just need a scheme change or a fresh start in Philadelphia and could play to their repuation, the Eagles won't need to shake up the position. But it's also conceivable to let both walk and restart," Inquirer reporter Zach Berman said.
Both cornerbacks were once known as the best in their position. It was believed that paired together, they created the toughest secondary in the NFL. However both are coming off career-worst performances in 2012 and have contracts that could have major ramifications to the salary cap space for the Eagles.
Asomugha was thought to be the best cornerback in the NFL, but since landing in Philly, he has not shown it. He will be 32 at the start of next season and will be due $15 million, $4 million of that is guaranteed. The Eagles could decide to keep Asomugha and just reduce his contract, or they could pay the $4 million and just release him. If they believe that Asomugha's future in Philly cannot be saved, eating the $4 million might be the best option.
Rodgers-Cromartie is an unrestricted free agent. If the Eagles want to keep him, they will have to the pay big figures he is likely to comand. At 27, he still possesses the abilities of an elite corner with speed and great ball skills. The Eagles could place the franchise tag on Rodgers-Cromartie and keep him at around $10 million, which is a big money commitment.
If Philly decides to keep both cornerbacks, believing they just need a new start, they could possibly be locked in to about $96 million in salary. While some cap space was alleviated with Michael Vick's new contract, the Eagles would only have $25 million left. An expensive commitment to two guys that may or may not play to their reputation.
If the Eagles decide to let them both go, they have plenty of options. Brandon Boykin and Curtis Marsh offer young talent. The Eagles also have the No. 4 overall pick in the upcoming draft to work with. Alabama's Dee Milliner is the type of cornerback that could fill a void left by either Asomugha or Rodgers-Cromartie. With Chip Kelly as the new head coach, niether player will be safe.
