Alshon Jeffrey: Eagles sign former Bears wide receiver
The Eagles kicked off free agency with a big splash, signing wide receiver Alshon Jeffrey
Philadelphia knew coming into free agency that they had to find some playmakers for rookie quarterback Carson Wentz. They were quick to do such and signed Alshon Jeffery to kick off free agency according to Josina Anderson of ESPN.
WR Alshon Jeffery is a 1-year deal for $14M to #Eagles.
— JosinaAnderson (@JosinaAnderson) March 9, 2017
The big issue that was noted in Wentz’ game season was his delivery. It affected his accuracy, and he mostly missed wide receivers high. With the addition of Jeffery, missing high should not be much of an option. Jeffery is tall as it is, but his biggest attribute is being a jump-ball player who can win contested passes in the air.
The team also added Torrey Smith, who will be a deep threat and will clear up safety help away from Jeffrey. Add in that Jordan Matthews is a great slot, possession receiver, and the Eagles corps has a fresh new look, and a chance to have great chemistry.
What is interesting about the deal is that it is only one-year. It makes sense for the Eagles, though. Jeffrey is coming off of a season with decreased production and a steroid suspension. It would be a risk to sign him long-term at this point. The Eagles have Nelson Agholor and Dorial Green-Beckham, two young receivers with upside. If Jeffery doesn’t work out, and one of the two ascend, it’s not that bad of a deal at all.
For Jeffery, his market was likely limited. Still, the Bears were going to move to Mike Glennon in Chicago, so he gets to upgrade his quarterback play, and try to hit again next offseason. It makes sense for both sides and could be a gamble that pays off for both sides in the long-term.