Peters re-signs with Eagles to complete O-line
The Eagles agreed to terms Tuesday on a one-year contract with 38-year-old veteran offensive lineman Jason Peters, a sign they’re concerned about depth.
Eagles right tackle Lane Johnson promptly tweeted out “Welcome back, TheBodyGuard” to Peters, his mentor the past seven seasons.
The NFL Network reported that Peters, approaching his 17th season, would replace All-Pro right guard Brandon Brooks, who tore an Achilles’ tendon and is sidelined for the 2020 season.
Believe that when you see it. Peters has said on multiple occasions he would move to guard if the Eagles needed him there. Even with high mileage, it’s almost certain he would make an impact at the position.
The reality is that the Eagles are much more likely to open with Peters at left tackle, where he’s played exclusively in his 11 seasons in Philly, much of it on an elite level.
The Eagles have told Andre Dillard, who they selected in the first round of the 2019 draft, that he will come into camp as the starting left tackle. Dillard, who was overpowered last year in four starts there plus one at right tackle, reportedly has bulked up to 335 pounds from 315.
One of the knocks on Dillard coming out of college was a lack of lower body strength. That didn’t prevent the Eagles from trading up to draft him.
The Eagles have several candidates to play right guard, starting with Matt Pryor, who filled in admirably when Brooks was hurt last season. Other candidates are Iosua Opeta, who was undrafted; Jack Driscoll, a rookie fourthround pick; and sixth-round choice Prince Tega Wanogho. Driscoll was told to get ready at center, as well.
While there is a chance that Dillard is the starting left tackle when the season begins, it’s highly unlikely that happens if it Peters is around and healthy. Quarterback Carson Wentz feels safe with JP on his blindside, gauging by his tweet with an emoji of a goat referencing the veteran.