Eagles’ Fletcher Cox came close to a trade last year, but the 11-year veteran continued to call Philadelphia home for another season. Despite an okay-ish season, calls are coming in once again.
Per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, teams across the league are still interested in the defensive tackle. A trade this season could be “something to watch”.
With all these big names being dealt, who could be the next? Last year, #Eagles Pro Bowl DT Fletcher Cox was nearly dealt at the trade deadline, and teams around the league have continued to call on him. Considering the D-line movement around the league, it’s something to watch.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 11, 2022
Cox played in 16 games during the 2021 season, logging 3.5 sacks, 35 tackles, and seven tackles for a loss. His sack total was the second-lowest of his career. Cox had a slow start, having difficulty with defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon’s scheme. Though he became more productive as the season progressed, Cox failed to make the Pro Bowl for the first time since 2014.
His contract was restructured last season, leaving the Eagles unable to complete a worthwhile trade. But, would a trade now be worth it?
Some could make a case that as the league’s eighth-highest paid interior defender, Cox should have played at a much higher level this past season. However, the 31-year-old still remains one of the best players across the NFL.
In December, Cox stated, “I know I can still play at that level. Obviously, didn’t have the number this year. It’s been up and down for me. I know of expected it. All I can do is go out and finish the season strong. I still know I’m one of the best D-tackles in the league. I’m not salty about it at all.”
If Cox is traded before June 1, the Eagles would incur a massive dead cap of $25 million. They would also lose $10 million in cap space. The deal would have to include another contract restructure or Philadelphia could wait until after June 1.
As it stands now, Cox is under contract through the 2023 season and has a cap number just under $15 million for 2022.
