Eagles’ Linebacker Myles Jack Retires After Only 2 Weeks

After seven years coupled with two weeks and one pre-season game with the Eagles, Myles Jack has decided to hang up his cleats per Ian Rapoport.

In his 7 seasons, Jack was the 36th pick in 2016 and played with both the Jaguars and Steelers, most notably as a key piece to the elite Jaguars defense that was one dead play away from leading the team to their first Super Bowl in franchise history. 

Now what does his retirement mean for the Eagles? Jack signed a 1 year, $1,775,000 contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, including a $25,000 signing bonus, $25,000 guaranteed On August 6th. While Jack was not going to be a star player for the Defense, he was going to add good depth. As far as a replacement for Jack goes, the Eagles have two options, practice squad and free agency.

The cheapest option is to sign someone from the practice squad. The most likely option is to bring up undrafted rookie  Ben VanSumeren from Michigan State. VanSumeren started 10 out of his 11 games last year for the Spartans and racked up a career-high 81 tackles (27 solo, 54 assists), which ranked third on the team. He also had 3 tackles for loss (30 yards), 2.0 sacks (22 yards), two pass break-ups and one QB hurry.

The other option the Eagles could take is looking into free agency. The downside of a free agent is the majority of outside linebackers left in free agency are a lot older and would most likely be a one to two year fix instead of the chance of developing a player like VanSumeren. The positive is that signing a veteran who is still a free agent after camp would be cheap. Along with the price, the Eagles will be getting a player who is already developed. The best free agent for the Eagles to sign is Anthony Barr. 

Impressive is an understatement to describe 4 time pro bowler Anthony Barr. Barr is a 10th year player who has spent 8 years with the Vikings as well as 1 year with the Cowboys. Barr was a pivotal player on the Vikings, starting every game he played since he entered the league in 2014. Up to this point, his career has been riddled with multiple knee, groin, and hamstring strains and a season ending pectoral tear in 2020. Despite his recent injuries, Barr is still looking to continue his career; he visited the Giants 2 days ago but has not signed yet. 

While Myles Jack’s retirement will take away some depth, he can be replaced quickly.