NFL Costless Agency got under way today, and Philadelphia Eagles general manager Howie Roseman did not hesitate to make moves. He started off the day by re-signing punter Donnie Jones to a three-year deal. The deal is for $5.5 million in total and includes a $1 million signing bonus with base salaries of $1 million in 2014, and $1.75 million in 2015 and 2016 with incentives that will raise his base salary in 2015 and 2016 by $250 thousand should he make the Pro Bowl in 2014 or 2015.
In 2013, Jones had a 40.3 net punting average and 33 punts downed inside the 20-yard line, both stats setting Eagles single-season records. He also led the NFL with 27 punts downed without a return and still did not make the Pro Bowl.
The Eagles also released safety Patrick Chung, marking Roseman's second move of the day. By releasing Chung, the Eagles saved $3.75 million that would have been due to Chung for his base salary in 2014, and the Eagles do not have to pay Chung the $1 million that he is owed so if another team were to pick up Chung, the Eagles would not pay a cent.
Shortly after releasing Chung, the Eagles confirmed the signing of former Saints safety Malcolm Jenkins. Jenkins was signed to a three-deal worth up to $16.5 million with $8.5 million being guaranteed.
The Eagles got a solid player for a position of need in Jenkins at safety. Although the signing does not void the hole that the safety position is for the Eagles, it gives them a player with versatility who can play both safety positions if the Eagles need him to.
Overall, the first day of costless agency was a success for the Philadelphia Eagles. Howie Roseman locked up one of the best punters in the game, released an atrocious safety in Chung and replaced him with a solid, versatile safety in Malcolm Jenkins.
Expect some more big moves from the Eagles in costless agency, especially with names like Darrelle Revis on the market.
