PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Eagles made a strategic move on Monday by signing suspended cornerback Isaiah Rodgers. This decision was driven by the team’s desire to gain an advantage over their competition.
Rodgers, 25, was released by the Indianapolis Colts in late June after being suspended indefinitely by the league for gambling policy violations. Upon signing with Philadelphia, he was immediately placed on the reserve/suspended list and will not be eligible for reinstatement until after the 2023 season.
The Eagles are playing the long game with this signing. They recognized the potential in Rodgers and wanted to secure him before his market had a chance to heat up. Rodgers has shown promise in his first three seasons, starting 10 games at corner and accumulating three interceptions, 90 tackles, and 10 passes defensed. Last season, he limited quarterbacks to a completion rate of 58.6 percent over 15 games. Additionally, Rodgers has experience as a kick and punt returner, including a 101-yard kick return touchdown as a rookie.
It’s important to note that Rodgers’ contract will toll this year and will take effect in 2024. This means that he will not count against the 2023 salary cap or occupy a roster spot while on the suspended list. This move allows the Eagles to secure a potential asset for the future without any immediate downside.
Currently, the Eagles have a solid cornerback group, with starters Darius Slay (32) and James Bradberry (30) leading the way. However, both players are deeper into their careers, and Slay carries a cap hit of approximately $11 million in 2024. Behind them, the team has promising young cornerbacks like second-year player Josh Jobe and rookie Kelee Ringo. The addition of Rodgers provides another potential option for the team in 2024 without any negative impact on their current roster.
By signing Rodgers, the Eagles have demonstrated their commitment to building a strong and competitive team for the future. They recognized the opportunity to acquire a talented player before other teams had a chance to pursue him. This move aligns with the team’s long-term vision and strategy.
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Overall, the Eagles’ decision to sign Isaiah Rodgers while he is suspended showcases their forward-thinking approach and their dedication to securing talent for the future. This move gives them another potential option at cornerback in 2024 without any immediate drawbacks. As the team continues to build and develop their roster, this signing sets them up for success in the long run.