In classic Howie Roseman fashion, the Eagles recently restructured the contracts of Derek Barnett and Lane Johnson, clearing up cap space for the 2021 season. While it seemed like routine cap management at first glance, the Eagles might have something up their sleeve with the extra cap space.

Philly converted $8.4 million of Lane Johnson’s base salary and $9 million of Derek Barnett’s while adding four voidable years to his contract to open cap space. By making these two moves, the Eagles have created $14 million in cap space, with $16 million available in total, according to Over the Cap.

Philadelphia likely conducted this move to open space now that can be pushed into the 2022 offseason, but it’s possible these were done to create space for contract extensions that could be signed now. Dallas Goedert, Jordan Mailata, Josh Sweat, Brandon Graham, Travis Fulgham, and Derek Barnett are some of the several names Philly will have to retain this upcoming offseason. 

Looking at Over the Cap for 2022, the Eagles are projected to only have $3 million in space before any of these extensions. Now more space will likely open up between more converted salaries and possible trades, but the Eagles are going to need every penny to bring back several members of their young core.

There has been no word yet on almost any of these extensions outside of Dallas Goedert a few weeks ago. The 2022 offseason will be a difficult one, but if they can lock up everyone they need, a lot more money will open up in 2023. Although many have criticized Howie for numerous reasons, he has always been able to work the cap for the Eagles and get the cap space needed.

Mandatory Credit: Philadelphia Eagles