The Philadelphia Eagles cut veteran Devin White on Oct. 8, and almost a month later, they’ve yet to make a corresponding move to shore up their linebacker depth.
Starters Zack Baun and Nakobe Dean have shouldered the load at that position for the Eagles, ranking third and fourth on team in total defensive snaps through the first two months of the season.
General manager Howie Roseman could be looking for an insurance plan at that position at the upcoming NFL trade deadline, as his top backups — rookie Jeremiah Trotter Jr. and Ben VanSumeren — have only made their presence felt on special teams.
NFL writers Matt Verderame and Gilberto Manzano of Sports Illustrated recently explored a potential solution. They believe the Eagles could send a seventh-round pick to the rebuilding Carolina Panthers in exchange for veteran inside linebacker Josey Jewell.
Here was their take:
Jewell would immediately help a thin linebacker group that has struggled for more than a year. It hasn’t worked out for Jewell in Carolina—one of many veterans who signed with the Panthers this offseason. But he recently returned from a three-game absence due to injury and appears ready to contribute to another team. Jewell was a reliable playmaker during six years with the Broncos (the 2023 season being one of the best in his career). Jewell had more than 100 tackles in each of his final two seasons in Denver. The Eagles have been starting Nakobe Dean and Zack Baun at linebacker this season.
Jewell signed a three-year deal with the Panthers this offseason, and he’d likely welcome a change of scenery with open arms.
This move would make sense for the Eagles. Having another veteran linebacker was always part of their plan, as they signed White to a one-year, $4 million contract this offseason with the intent of him opening the season as their starting middle linebacker. They certainly did not foresee cutting White before he ever played a snap in 2024.
The team likes both Trotter Jr. and VanSumeren, but they’ve combined for 15 total defensive snaps so far this season. Jewell was a leader for some good Broncos defenses, and his presence would give the linebacker room a boost without posing a threat to either starter’s playing time.
The Eagles have several potential needs at the deadline, with No. 3 wide receiver and EDGE defender high on the list. A smaller move for a veteran inside linebacker would certainly check a box as Philly prepares for a deep playoff run.