2014 NFL Free Agency Rumors: Philadelphia Eagles showing interest in Michael Johnson

Nov 17, 2013; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Michael Johnson (93) reacts during the game against the Cleveland Browns at Paul Brown Stadium. Cincinnati won 41-20. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /

Philadelphia Eagles head coach Chip Kelly loves versatile players not only on the offensive side of the ball, but on defense as well, which is why it comes as no surprise that the team is very interested in acquiring the services of Bengals defensive end Michael Johnson as the Free Agency period gets underway.

According to PhillyMag.com, the Eagles are showing “some interest” in Johnson to help out on the defensive side of things, mainly using that athleticism to drop into coverage and help with the pass, in addition to his rushing abilities.

This move, obviously, would entail Johnson playing more of an outside linebacker role while in Philly, which at 26-years-old, should be no problem for him at this point in his career. He already has the natural pass coverage skills and can be coached up just enough, and then there’s the option to walk him up and drop his hand in the dirt when needed.

Last season in the Draft, Kelly passed on one of his own at defense when he didn’t select Dion Jordan from Oregon. Johnson could be that answer to the tall, athletic defensive stud.

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