After being linked to several different free agent wide receivers, the Philadelphia Eagles ended up signing Zach Pascal.

While it may not be a household name, it’s certainly a player who can bring a positive impact on the Eagles. Just ask Nick Sirianni, who can’t say enough good things about him.

Pascal was a regular topic during Sirianni’s early days as the Eagles head coach. He mentioned him as a player that does things the right way and that he has carved out a nice career doing so.

“I know I’ve said this before and I tell Zach this and the guys make fun of me when I say this, but I want my sons to play football like Zach Pascal.”

Sirianni told Pascal after 2020 season

Weaknesses

Pascal isn’t known for his separation skills or athleticism. He also lacks the polish as a route runner to make up for the lack of athleticism. He had a career-high 44 receptions and 629 yards in 2020, which was Sirianni’s last season working with him.

Due to these limitations, he is ideally not a starter. However, as your third or fourth receiver, you’re putting him in the right spot. He simply isn’t ever going to handle top corners defending him on the outside.

Strengths

Pascal is a very physical player and an effective run-blocker, which is something the Eagles look for in their run-heavy scheme. Pascal also has strong hands and has a knack for making tough, short-yardage catches. Pascal spends most of his time in the slot at 6-foot-2 and 220 pounds, providing a level of size and physicality that the current Eagles receiver room doesn’t have.

While Pascal isn’t moving the needle per se, he is a great culture guy and someone who can catch 2-3 balls per game. His most significant impact will be pushing those around him. Adding a veteran presence in this young receiver room was a goal of this offseason for the Eagles.

The Signing of Zach Pascal doesn’t mean the Eagles won’t make more moves at the receiver position. If anything, it raises the chances they use another high draft pick on one.

Even though Sirianni and Howie have both publicly praised Quez Watkins as someone who can be a #2 receiver, it’s clear they need a true compliment to DeVonta Smith.

Zach Pascal LOST HIM with the route ‼️ @ZachPascal6 @Colts pic.twitter.com/joXjTcKAil

— The Checkdown (@thecheckdown) October 4, 2020

Mandatory Credit: USA Today