The Philadelphia Eagles may consider drafting a quarterback over signing back Sam Bradford in free agency. Players like Carson Wentz, Paxton Lynch, Connor Cook and Kevin Hogan could be potential targets for new head coach Doug Pederson if Bradford ends up leaving as a free agent.
The Eagles are coming into the offseason with a big question at quarterback, as Bradford is headed towards free agency and the team must decide if it's worth signing him to a new contract. New head coach Doug Pederson has said that Bradford is fit for his offense, but it was Chip Kelly who initially brought Bradford to Philadelphia and the team could consider moving forward with a younger player.
Bradford is the top quarterback hitting the market this offseason and the Eagles could have some competition for his services. Teams like the Cleveland Browns, San Francisco 49ers, Houston Texans and Jets could be potential options for Bradford, while the Eagles could consider using the franchise tag on the QB if they don't want to let him go. Bradford is reportedly interested in coming back and while the Eagles are open to signing him, ESPN reporter Phil Sheridan writes that if the Eagles are "convinced they can get a legit quarterback in the draft," they mat let Bradford leave.
Pederson spoke with the Philly voice about the situation and said that the team could get a "young quarterback possibly" in the draft. While that doesn't mean Bradford won't return, the Eagles will have some options in the draft and may see that as a better way to build things moving forward over signing back Bradford, who had 19 touchdowns and 14 interceptions last season.
Sheridan writes that the Eagles likely will take a "close look" at prospects like Carson Wentz, Paxton Lynch and Connor Cook as they make a decision about Bradford. Wentz has been generating buzz as a potential top 10 pick, which would mean the Eagles would have to trade up to get him if they felt he was "the guy" for them. Lynch should be available at the number 13 pick and he could be a fit for Pederson due to his ability to run the ball at times.
Lynch put up solid stats last season with 3,778 yards with 28 touchdowns and three interceptions while completing 67 percent of his passes, but he also is considered a bit less developed and may need a year or two before he can be a reliable starter. Cook has good size and experience from his time at Michigan State and he comes in after passing for 3,131 yards with 24 touchdowns and seven interceptions. Cook should be available when the Eagles get on the board in the draft and he could be an option if Lynch or Wentz are not available.
