The Philadelphia Eagles were surprisingly active in free agency, dropping big money on running back Saquon Barkley and pass rusher Bryce Huff. While the team still has a good amount of cap space, Huff’s arrival combined with the presence of former first-round pick Nolan Smith means that the Eagles will likely trade two-time Pro Bowl edge defender Haason Reddick.
Rumors of a potential Haason Reddick trade are nothing new. A little over a month ago, the Eagles permitted Reddick to look for a new NFL home. While he is on the older side, the Temple product has recorded a staggering 27 sacks over the past two seasons. This type of production is remarkably valuable in today’s NFL, and the latest change to Reddick’s contract implies that a new team will be getting his services within the next few weeks.
The edge defender was supposed to receive a $1 million roster bonus on March 15th. That didn’t happen, as both Philadelphia and Reddick himself agreed to push that bonus payment until April 1st. This gives the Eagles more time for Haason Reddick to find a trade partner, and with the free agent market drying up, it should only be a matter of time before a deal materializes.
Haason Reddick Trade Could Be Imminent Following Contract Update
The biggest holdup with the Haason Reddick trade is likely the money. The two-time Pro Bowler currently carries a $21.8 million cap hit, but that number will drop to $5.28 million if Philadelphia trades him after June 1st. This means that the team acquiring him will give up a pick for the rights to take on a $15 million cap hit. On top of that, Reddick is a free agent after the season, so a team could only guarantee one season of Reddick.
Even though Haason Reddick is a great player, it makes sense that teams would rather try their luck in free agency instead of going for a trade. However, now that Jadeveon Clowney is the only major free agent left on the market, a bidding war could erupt between the teams who could not land a top pass rusher.
Possible Destinations
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jacksonville Jaguars have had an interesting free agency. While they haven’t shied away from spending money, they’ve spent it in odd places. The team used the franchise tag on Josh Allen, but they need a complementary rusher if they want to have a reliable defense. Haason Reddick is the best option left, and the team has the cap space to trade for him.
Tennesee Titans
The Tennessee Titans are one of the most improved teams in free agency. After upgrading the offensive line and wide receiver positions, it’s time for this team to focus on the defensive side of the ball. Haason Reddick would provide a much-needed boost on the edge, and the Titans should consider a trade if they truly believe Will Levis can guide this team to the playoffs.
Carolina Panthers
After trading Brian Burns to the New York Giants, the Carolina Panthers need some serious help on the edge. While D.J. Wonnum is a fine player, he lacks any type of serious upside. Haason Reddick would easily be the best edge defender on this roster and a trade would help this Panthers team compete in a relatively weak NFC South. Much like the Titans, this comes down to their belief in their second-year quarterback. If Carolina truly believes they have a franchise quarterback, then they’ll do what they can to be competitive in 2024.
Baltimore Ravens
Few teams have lost more talent over the past few weeks than the Baltimore Ravens. While Jadeveon Clowney could technically still re-sign with the team, it appears as though he’s going to leave for greener pastures. With no other place to turn, the Ravens could consider a Haason Reddick trade to shore up the defense. While the unit probably won’t be as good in 2024 as they were in 2023, Reddick and defensive tackle Justin Madubuike should be a lethal combination.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Kansas City Chiefs have one of the best defenses in the game and look to be in good shape for their attempt at a three-peat. However, they do have a weakness at edge defender, and they could easily fix it with a Haason Reddick trade. First-round pick Felix Anudike-Uzomah didn’t do much of anything as a rookie, and Reddick’s presence will ensure this team has at least one reliable edge rusher opposite George Karlaftis.
Main Photo: Eric Hartline – USA Today Sports
