The Philadelphia Eagles - borrowing its name from the ultimate symbol of freedom - is staying true to the term and letting Nick Foles hit free agency.
The team announced Wednesday (February 27) it will not franchise tag its backup quarterback despite the potential trade market.
"It's [a hard decision] when you have someone who's incredibly available to your organization at the most important position in sports," executive vice president of football operations Howie Roseman told reporters: "And at the same time, we've had incredible success with [Foles] when he's had to play. Four playoff wins over the last two years. Great teammate. Huge resource for Carson [Wentz] and Nate Sudfeld."
The Eagles originally wanted to retain Foles and picked up his $20 million option for 2019 in January, but Foles bought out of the contract for $2 million. The Eagles could have tagged the 30-year-old for $25 million in 2019.
The move is morally right but probably a wise decision too. The Eagles would have put themselves more than $20 million above the estimated cap number, according to OverTheCap.com. After failing to receive any substantial bid last year for the quarterback, the team realised that path put it under to much pressure.
Foles will hope to finally find a locker room to command after spending periods with the Eagles, Rams, Chiefs. The former Super Bowl MVP will be one of the biggest names this free agency.
"[Nick Foles] is someone we feel is a top 15 quarterback in this league" continued Roseman: " We were incredibly fortunate to have him and wish him the best of luck in the future."
COVER PHOTO: Big Cat Country
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