The Philadelphia Eagles made several key signings at the start of free agency, but none were more important than locking down Jeremy Maclin and Riley Cooper to new deals for next season. Maclin's might only be a one-year contract, but it is the most important deal the Eagles offered. Shortly after signing the two wide receivers, Philadelphia released DeSean Jackson, their biggest offensive performer. Even without Jackson, Maclin believes Philadelphia has the best offense.
Jackson may or may not be missed, that is up to both Maclin and Cooper. The receiver led the Eagles in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns last season so the hole he left on the field is certainly a big one. That is a lot of production to replace no matter who remains on the roster. Maclin is confident that the Eagles will have no issues filling the gaps.
"I think we'll be fine, man. Obviously DeSean is one of the better playmakers in this league but we're moving forward and I think we'll be just fine," Maclin said, via Tim McManus of PhillyMag.com. "I have faith in the offense and I have faith in the guys that we have in the locker room and on the football field. Chip said it himself: the offense is not built around one guy. We have multiple guys that go out there and make plays, so I'm looking forward to seeing what we can do this year."
Maclin confirms that he is 100 percent healthy entering voluntary workouts. The reason Jackson and Cooper were such stars last year is because the receiver missed the entire season with a preseason ACL tear. Now completely healthy, Maclin is ready to begin leading the team in categories. With Nick Foles entering his first full season as the starting quarterback, the Eagles will need a big year from Maclin and Cooper. Pair them with the trade for Darren Sproles and the Eagles offense looks impressive, but Philadelphia intends on drafting a wide receiver early just in case Jackson's vacancy is too big for two players to occupy.
The Eagles have looked at several options in the draft. The team has considered a trade up for a player like Mike Evans. They have brought in everyone from Marqise Lee to Kelvin Benjamin for a pre-draft workout. In need of top defensive players, the Eagles might hold out for a second receiver over a top player. Having Maclin and Cooper buys them options.
