ESPN lists Eagles as “best fit” for two top free agents

Heading into the offseason, the Eagles have quite a lengthy to-do list.

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While the speculation continues to focus on the quarterback position, this roster has several other urgent needs.

ESPN recently released their top-50 free agents along with their “best fits,” and named the Eagles as possible landing spots for two players:

7. Marcus Williams, S

Best team fit: Philadelphia Eagles

Why it makes sense: Williams will have several options as a high-level free safety with 15 interceptions and 38 pass deflections in five seasons. The Eagles’ safety unit is in transition, and the team could be willing to outbid the Saints and others. — Fowler

Scheme fit: Williams is a fit for Jonathan Gannon’s defensive scheme as a post or quarters defender who has elite range — and the ball skills to make plays down the field. — Bowen

42. JuJu Smith-Schuster, WR

Best team fit: Philadelphia Eagles

Why it makes sense: Smith-Schuster seems destined to leave Pittsburgh. The Chiefs were interested a year ago and could circle back. Smith-Schuster has battled knee and shoulder issues, but when healthy, he can make tough catches over the middle and is a strong blocker — which would help Eagles coach Nick Sirianni’s run-heavy attack. — Fowler

Scheme fit: The Eagles have speed and vertical ability in the wide receiver room, but they are lacking a slot target with physical traits. Smith-Schuster is more explosive than you think, with the catch-and-run ability to work as a big slot in Sirianni’s offense. — Bowen

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Marcus Smith will head into free agency as one of the most sought-after safeties available, along with Jessie Bates. With Anthony Harris and Rodney McLeod being free agents as well, expect GM Howie Roseman to be actively looking for safety.

As for Smith-Schuster, his agent was in contact with the Eagles last offseason before eventually returning to Pittsburgh on a one-year deal:

In this case, JuJu Smith-Schuster’s agent called the Eagles to gauge their interest; those were the discussions. The Eagles did not wind up courting him. JuJu back to Pittsburgh, which was what he wanted. https://t.co/IWTvGIfzxs

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 19, 2021

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After playing in just five games in 2021 due to a shoulder injury, Smith-Schuster finds himself testing free agency once again. Does Philadelphia make sense?

The Eagles certainly need another receiver to avert attention from DeVonta Smith, but there will be more dynamic options on the market.

Smith-Schuster racked up 308 receptions for 3,726 yards and 26 TDs over his first four years in Pittsburgh.

The @Steelers have a new WR1…

👀 @juju pic.twitter.com/4q4RiOoBDV

— NFL (@NFL) March 10, 2019

Mandatory Credit: Getty Images