Eagles named potential trade partner for All-Pro defender

There can't be an article out there in the media about a star player being traded without the Philadelphia Eagles being mentioned as a potential trade partner.

One of the biggest storylines during offseason workouts is Pittsburgh Steelers All-Pro defender T.J. Watt's dissatisfaction with his contract, which may lead to him not being back. This has resulted in some thinking a trade could happen if an agreement can't come together.

CBS Sports writer Cody Benjamin named five teams that would be good trade partners with the Steelers for Watt. The Eagles were once again named as a team that could throw their hat into the ring.

"Why should general manager Howie Roseman ever be counted out of big-name sweepstakes? The Eagles spent much of the offseason shedding salary, not collecting it, but we know they prioritize the trenches, and with both Brandon Graham and Josh Sweat exiting their edge group, a proven star like Watt could take a lot of pressure off young starters like Nolan Smith. Can you imagine Watt and Jalen Carter on the same front? It'd cost a pretty penny, but Watt would also get to stay in Pennsylvania to continue his career."

Not to be Negative Nancy, but this won't happen

The media has not learned Philadelphia's offseason plan. Eagles' general manager Howie Roseman has wanted to keep a low profile with signings to save money and keep the roster young.

Philadelphia didn't want to bring back guys like Josh Sweat and Milton Williams because they were going to command too much money in free agency. It's also part of the reason why the team traded C.J. Gardner-Johnson and Bryce Huff as well as released Darius Slay and James Bradberry. These were cost-saving moves.

There isn't much doubt that Watt is one of the premier defenders in the NFL, with seven Pro Bowls, five All-Pro selections, and 2021 Defensive Player of the Year. This is a guy who has led the league in sacks in three of his eight seasons.

The Eagles can't afford him. Watt needs to be the largest paid defender in NFL history and Philadelphia is not in the market for that kind of contract.

They are already bracing for a big hit in their wallets with Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis due for big paydays in the next year or two. Quinyon Mitchell, Reed Blankenship, and Cooper DeJean could also be in the conversation for contract extensions within the next few years.

Philadelphia would rather reward the players who have been here from the beginning than give it to an outside player, even if that player is most likely a first-ballot Hall of Famer. The Eagles have not been aggressive this offseason and that's not going to change for Watt. They didn't get Jalen Ramsey or Jaire Alexander, so why would it change for Watt?