The Philadelphia Eagles are keeping busy before the start of free agency.
On the same day the team announced a contract extension for left tackle Jason Peters, the Eagles also are closing in on new deals with wide receivers Riley Cooper and Jeremy Maclin as well as center Jason Kelce.
NFL Media's Albert Breer reported Wednesday, per an Eagles source, that the goal for the club is to get all three players locked up before free agency begins March 11. The Philadelphia Inquirer's Jeff McLane first reported that the Eagles are working on new deals for the players.
Per McLane, Cooper is close to agreeing to a multi-year contract, according to an NFL source. The deal could be completed in the next few days. A multi-year extension with Kelce could be announced as soon as Thursday morning.
Cooper is set to become a free agent March 11. Kelce is entering the final year of his rookie deal.
McLane reported that Maclin, currently recovering from surgery to repair a torn ACL, likely will sign a one-year "show me" contract to remain with the Eagles, his preferred team.
Cooper took on a bigger role after Maclin's preseason knee injury and had a career year, setting career highs in receptions (47), yards (835) and touchdowns (eight). His 17.8 yards per reception was the third-best in the NFL. There was a question about whether Cooper "fit" Chip Kelly's system well, but the coach is clearly happy with Cooper's contributions.
If the deal with Kelce is completed, the Eagles will have their entire offensive line locked into long-term deals. Stability is the word in Philly.
On the latest edition of the "Around The League Podcast," the guys talked Jim Harbaugh drama in San Francisco and shared who made the most striking impressing at the NFL Scouting Combine.
