Could the Philadelphia Eagles land this future Hall-of-Famer in NFL free agency?
The Philadelphia Eagles needed a pass rusher heading into the NFL trade deadline, and they found their answer, acquiring Jaelan Phillips in a trade with the Miami Dolphins.
However, Phillips is an impending free agent, and given his injury history, the Eagles may choose not to re-sign him during the offseason.
Philadelphia definitely needs to address its edge rusher position in March, and with Philly projected to have a decent amount of cap room, it could certainly afford to make a run at a star player in free agency.
In fact, Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox has already zeroed in in a potential target for the Eagles, naming them a top destination for Los Angeles Chargers star Khalil Mack.
"Chargers pass-rusher Khalil Mack will turn 35 in February and may only command one-year contracts for the rest of his playing career. However, he remains a legitimate difference-maker when healthy," Knox wrote. "... While Mack may not make his 10th Pro Bowl this season, he's going to interest contenders in the offseason. He reached 17 sacks just two seasons ago."
Mack re-signed with Los Angeles on a one-year deal last offseason and missed some time this season with an elbow injury, but has still managed to register eight tackles and three sacks in five games.
The University at Buffalo product has long been one of the best pass rushers in football since entering the NFL with the Oakland Raiders in 2014, having logged five double-digit sack campaigns. He has earned three First-Team All-Pro selections while also having won a Defensive Player of the Year award.
Mack did show significant signs of decline in 2024, totaling 39 tackles and six sacks with the Chargers, but he remains a force who commands a ton of attention.
The Eagles could certainly look to add him on a one-year contract, especially considering that they should once again be in Super Bowl contention next season.
Of course, Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson could also represent a possibility for the Birds, but he might prove to be too expensive.
Mack would come on a short-term deal and might even take less money to play with the Eagles if he wants to ring chase.