Philadelphia Eagles have more room to maneuver in the upcoming NFL free agency, starting March 13, with the salary cap on the rise. Presently, they possess $27.4 million in cap space, but General Manager Howie Roseman can employ various strategies to further boost this figure for the 2024 season. Here are five methods the Eagles could employ to exceed $30 million in cap space for 2024:
1. Releasing Kevin Byard:
The acquisition of Kevin Byard from the Tennessee Titans seemed logical at the time, addressing the Eagles’ need for safety support. However, Byard’s performance didn’t meet expectations, and at 31 years old, his effectiveness appears diminished. Cutting ties with Byard, particularly with a post-June 1 designation, would free up $14 million in cap space for 2024.
2. Extending Haason Reddick:
Haason Reddick, nearing the end of his contract, has been a pivotal player for the Eagles’ defense. Despite trade rumors, Reddick’s commitment to the team remains strong. Negotiating an extension with him could save the Eagles $11.8 million against the cap, bolstering their financial flexibility.
3. Extending Landon Dickerson:
Landon Dickerson, the Eagles’ left guard, is also in the final year of his contract. Extending his contract would result in $3 million in cap savings for the team. Dickerson’s consistent performance has earned him Pro Bowl nods, making him a valuable asset for the Eagles’ offensive line.
4. Extending or restructuring Josh Sweat:
Defensive end Josh Sweat, though experiencing a decline in performance compared to his standout 2022 season, remains a crucial part of the Eagles’ defensive line. Negotiating an extension or restructuring his contract could save the team $2.5 million against the cap, further bolstering their financial position.
5. DeVonta Smith extension:
While DeVonta Smith is contracted with the Eagles until 2025, exploring a contract extension could yield $1.8 million in cap savings for 2024. Smith’s contributions to the Eagles’ offense, alongside A.J. Brown, have been significant, making him a prime candidate for a long-term deal.
By implementing these measures, the Eagles could exceed $30 million in cap space for the 2024 season, providing them with ample resources for roster improvements and strategic maneuvers in the upcoming free agency period.