Eagles Sign OT Demetress Bell

Added on Apr 04, 2012 by Scott in

NFL

With five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Jason Peters expected to miss the 2012 season with a ruptured Achilles, the Philadelphia Eagles have been actively seeking a backup plan. Today they executed their plan by signing free agent left tackle Demetress Bell to a five-year contract. Bell spent the first four seasons of his career with the Bills, logging 30 starts since 2009.

With bell in the fold, the Birds can turn their attention to other areas of need in the upcoming draft. While not in the same league as Peters, the 27-year-old is at the very least a serviceable replacement who could see his game vastly improve under offensive line coach Howard Mudd.

Losing Peters dealt a severe blow to an improving line. In 2011, he was a dominant force in both pass protection and the run game. His massive frame combined with quick feet make him one of the NFL’s best left tackles. How well he recovers from Achilles surgery will be critical to remainder of his career.

In Bell, the Eagles are getting what they hope is a rising player. He struggled in his first year in 2009, rebounded in 2010, then missed ten starts a season ago with a nagging shoulder ailment. He has ideal size and strength, but doesn’t flash on tape. Adapting to Mudd’s scheme might be his biggest challenge.

Philly will likely address defensive line and safety in the early rounds to add depth and competition. Cullen Jenkins and Mike Patterson are solid starters inside, but behind them the cupboard is a tad bare; Antonio Dixon has yet to prove he can contribute on a weekly basis. At safety, the trio of Nate Allen, Kurt Coleman and Jaiquawn Jarrett are all works in progress.

The front office also appears determined to trade cornerback Asante Samuel which could provide more draft ammunition. Needless to say, there’s no such thing as a dull offseason in the Eagles nest.

Source: NFL.com