By: Mark T. Wilson
The Philadelphia Eagles love to show their gratitude for winning the big game. Following their first Super Bowl victory, they unveiled a statue outside the Linc that honored coach Doug Pederson and QB Nick Foles for their contributions to their Super Bowl victory. Off the heels of another championship, the Eagles must do the right thing and make one for the true leader of this team— Howie Roseman.
No matter what Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley or the defense did against the Kansas City Chiefs, all credit has to go to Roseman. His drive and willingness to do the unthinkable put this team in a position to create their own dynasty.
Roseman is regarded as the best GM in the NFL, and rightfully so. His moves have been legendary. We can go on for 2 days giving praise to the decisions he has made but let’s look at the big picture. He had an MVP-caliber QB in Carson Wentz but still took a flyer on a QB in the second round of the 2000 NFL Draft. That QB would lead the Eagles to two SB appearances and one victory. He grabbed Barkley from the Giants at a time when many thought that was a reach. Barkley just went out and ran for 2000 yards.
He stole AJ Brown from the Tennessee Titans. He took a gamble on DeVonta Smith and built a defense comprised of SEC players who will be the cornerstone of this team for half a decade. Coaches were hired and have moved on to top positions with other teams and all he has done is replace them with others and kept winning.
No draft is a slam dunk, it’s a risk no matter the GM. However, Howie Roseman hits more than he misses. He gets players other teams don’t want and they reward him with All-Pro seasons. Look at Jordan Mailata, CJ Gardner-Johnson, Zack Baun, Cam Jergens, and Isaiah Rodgers. Roseman is just that good.
After the SB aftershock wears off, Roseman has work to do. He has to figure out who to resign and who to let go, then it’s draft time. He has to build this team for their dynasty run.
When Jeff Lurie is staring at the statue of Pederson and Foles, he needs to stop and think, maybe it’s time for Howie Roseman to not only get his flowers, but for him to be immortalized forever in the history of the Philadelphia Eagles.