Philadelphia Eagles Sign Former Detroit Lions Linebacker Julian Okwara
In a surprising move, the Philadelphia Eagles have signed former Detroit Lions linebacker Julian Okwara. The veteran, who played the last four seasons in Detroit, has agreed to a Reserve/Future deal with Philly.
Okwara, who played in nine games last season, showed promise with 4 quarterback hits and 2 sacks. However, his best season came in 2021, where he recorded impressive stats including 27 tackles, 9 quarterback hits, 6 tackles for loss, 5 sacks, and an interception in 13 appearances.
This signing is a low-risk move for the Eagles, as Okwara’s Reserve contract does not guarantee him a spot on the final roster. It simply allows Philadelphia to retain his rights throughout the offseason, preventing him from negotiating with other teams.
The Eagles will have to make a decision on Okwara’s future as they finalize their 53-man roster before Week 1. Okwara was selected by the Lions in the third round of the 2020 NFL draft, and his athleticism, speed, and burst were praised by NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein.
Despite a slightly disappointing senior season and a broken leg, Okwara has shown potential as an edge rusher. However, he needs to develop a rush counter and improve his ability to play the run to succeed in the NFL.
This signing is likely one of the Eagles’ final moves before NFL free agency begins in March. The team currently has $11.9 million in cap space, and they could potentially free up more by trading Haason Reddick, who has been the subject of trade rumors.
The Eagles’ acquisition of Okwara adds depth and experience to their linebacker corps, and fans are hopeful that he will make a significant impact on the team’s defense. Only time will tell if this signing proves to be a smart move for Philadelphia.
In a shocking turn of events, it has been reported that Haason Reddick, the All-Pro pass-rusher for the Philadelphia Eagles, has been given permission to explore potential trades. This news comes just in time for Super Bowl Sunday, adding an unexpected twist to the highly anticipated event. However, it is important to note that Reddick himself has denied ever requesting a trade and expressed his desire to stay with the Eagles.
Speaking to Bleacher Report’s Jordan Schultz, Reddick made it clear that he wants to remain in Philadelphia and is hopeful for a contract extension. He emphasized his love for the city and his deep connection to it, stating that he was born and raised there. Reddick also highlighted the incredible experiences he has had as an Eagle, calling them some of the most enjoyable years of his football career.
With one year remaining on his current deal and no guaranteed money left, Reddick’s future with the Eagles hangs in the balance. However, his loyalty and dedication to the team cannot be questioned. He has made it clear that he wants to continue playing for Philadelphia and hopes to secure a new contract that will keep him in his beloved city.
As the NFL community eagerly awaits further updates on this situation, it is clear that Reddick’s presence on the field has been impactful. His skills as a pass-rusher have made him a key player for the Eagles, and his desire to stay with the team is a testament to his commitment and passion for the sport. Only time will tell what the future holds for Haason Reddick, but one thing is for certain – his heart lies in Philadelphia.
According to the Source heavy.com