The Eagles secondary could be a problem this year

Photo Credit; Philadelphia Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles have made some very notable moves this offseason to prepare themselves for this upcoming football year.

Whether it was the signing of all pro wide receiver A.J. Brown, picking up cornerback James Bradberry from the giants, or signing 49ers safety Jaquiski Tartt and then releasing him in a matter of a month.

The most recent signing that the Eagles made however, is one that I believe we needed the most which was improvement in our secondary. Aug. 30, after the release of safety Anthony Harris, the Eagles traded for Saints defensive back Chauncey Gardner-Johnson and a 2025 seventh round draft pick. The Eagles had to give up their 2013 fifth round pick and 2024 sixth round pick according to ESPN analyst Adam Schefter.

 According to USA TODAY reporter Martin Frank, Eagles GM Howie Roseman had some high hopes for the Eagles secondary this season. "Not that we were unhappy with our defensive backfield, or safety position, but we were looking for opportunities to get better. When we look at New Orleans and the depth that they have on their roster, we thought maybe it would be a fit."

Gardner-Johnson will be playing safety next to Mike Epps this season. This is a huge improvement to the safety position which was by far the worst for the Eagles besides the run game last season. Frank also stated that Johnson racked up three interceptions and two sacks last season as a nickel corner.

When describing the Eagles new acquisition, philadelphiaeagles.com reporter Dave Spadaro stated, “Listed as a defensive back with the Saints because he's versatile enough to cover as a slot cornerback and physical enough to play the safety position, Gardner-Johnson is expected to add to the Eagles' safety room. Defensive Coordinator Jonathan Gannon likes to employ his players in a variety of spots throughout the defense, emphasizing their ability to adapt, adjust, and play fast and physical.”

This type of physicality is something that they Eagles secondary will need this season as they play against teams like the Vikings, the Saints, and the Steelers who all have very talented wide receiver groups. These new additions to the Eagles has potential to help build a special season for the birds in 2022.