Following the bye week, the Philadelphia Eagles closed out a narrow win against the Cleveland Browns. It was a step in the right direction for both the offense and the defense, however, the win did not inspire confidence for fans. With A.J. Brown and Devonta Smith’s return to the lineup, there’s optimism with the offense. Yet, the defense, despite a solid week, still has questions and issues they need to address. Here are a few names that could pop up as Eagles trade targets.
Hard to Get but Major Potential: Jeffery Simmons and Harold Landry
The Tennessee Titans have had an abysmal start to the season, but not because of their defense. The Titans defense has given up the least yardage so far this season, and they very well could close shop and refuse to deal anyone from the unit. Jeffery Simmons has been one of the most dominant interior forces in recent years but has not got it going early this season.
However, they may be willing to part ways with one of their stars for a big haul to assist them in possibly trading up to draft a quarterback and rebuild their offensive line. The Titans would also save $8 million in cap space in 2025 if he was traded. The Titans may not be willing to part with a player as talented as Simmons, but it’s worth a call for Howie Roseman to investigate and try to pair him with Jalen Carter.
Harold Landry would be another candidate to fit right in on the edge of the Eagles’ defense. He’s gotten off to a hot start recording four sacks and six tackles for loss in five games. The Eagles’ edge rushers have struggled to put pressure on the quarterback for most of the year. Landry would be an instant remedy to that issue and give offenses someone to fear each week.
Two Likely Eagles Trade Targets: Ernest Jones and Za’darius Smith
All eyes are on the possibility of prying away Maxx Crosby from the Las Vegas Raiders and Myles Garrett from the Browns. However, these trades are unlikely to get any real steam unless one of them forces their way out. Za’Darius Smith, on the other hand, could be someone the struggling Browns would be willing to part ways with for a modest price.
Smith recently turned 32 and is on a two-year deal with a potential out in 2025. Instead of potentially cutting bait with Smith after this year, the Browns would likely be willing to let get some draft compensation for him before the trade deadline. Smith has three sacks this year, which would lead the Eagles team.
Ernest Jones is a similar case, where the Titans may be looking to unload the linebacker in the final year of his contract. After acquiring him from the Los Angeles Rams in the offseason, Jones has been a solid steady player throughout his career. He would be an upgrade over Nakobe Dean who has struggled making tackles in open space and taking on blocks.
The Golden Goose: Budda Baker
Budda Baker has seemingly been an Eagles trade target for the last two years. Entering the final year of his contract with the Arizona Cardinals, they may feel that it’s unlikely they re-sign Baker in the offseason and opt for a trade instead. Chauncey Gardner Johnson has been a bit of a disappointment for the Eagles this year in a crucial spot in Vic Fangio’s defense.
Baker could come in right away and upgrade either safety spot, influencing both the run and pass game. The Price would be high for Baker and there would be several teams in the mix to acquire him. The Eagles should be at the top of the caller list if he starts to be shopped around.
