The Eagles-Panthers trade prediction brings linebacker depth to Philly at a bargain price

The Philadelphia Eagles released veteran Devin White on Oct. 8, and nearly a month later they still haven't made a corresponding move to bolster their linebacker depth.

Starters Zack Baun and Nakobe Dean have carried the load at the position for the Eagles, ranking third and fourth on the team in total defensive snaps through the first two months of the season.

General manager Howie Roseman could be looking for an insurance plan at the position at the upcoming NFL trade deadline since his top backups – rookie Jeremiah Trotter Jr. and Ben VanSumeren – are only on special teams.

Sports Illustrated NFL writers Matt Verderame and Gilberto Manzano recently explored a possible solution. They believe the Eagles could send a seventh-round pick to the resurgent Carolina Panthers in exchange for veteran inside linebacker Josey Jewell.

Here was her opinion:

Jewell would provide immediate help to a thin linebacker group that has struggled for more than a year. Things didn't work out for Jewell in Carolina – one of many veterans who signed with the Panthers this offseason. But he recently returned from a three-game absence due to injury and appears ready to contribute for another team. Jewell was a reliable playmaker for six years with the Broncos (the 2023 season was one of the best of his career). Jewell had more than 100 tackles in each of his final two seasons in Denver. The Eagles have used Nakobe Dean and Zack Baun at linebacker this season.

Jewell signed a three-year deal with the Panthers this offseason and would likely welcome a change of scenery with open arms.

This move would make sense for the Eagles. It was always part of their plan to have another experienced linebacker, as they signed White to a one-year, $4 million contract this offseason with the intent that he would open the season as their starting middle linebacker. They certainly didn't expect White to be out before he even played a snap in 2024.

The team likes both Trotter Jr. and VanSumeren, but together they have played a total of 15 defensive snaps so far this season. Jewell has been the leader of some good Broncos defenses, and his presence would give the linebacker more room to play without jeopardizing the playing time of either starter.

The Eagles have several potential needs at the deadline, with No. 3 wide receiver and EDGE defender at the top of the list. A smaller move for a veteran inside linebacker would certainly be a checkmark as Philly prepares for a deep playoff run.

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