Howie Roseman has done it again.
The Philadelphia Eagles signed cornerback Isaiah Rodgers to a new deal after he was released by the Indianapolis Colts due to a gambling violation.
Rodgers, who is just 25 years old, could become a key piece to an already talented Eagles secondary. Last season, Rodgers finished as the 25th-ranked cornerback in the NFL, according to Pro Football Focus. He finished with 34 tackles, four interceptions, and one forced fumble.
A former sixth-round pick out of UMass, Rodgers has some previous ties with the Eagles. He played at UMass with current Eagles offensive lineman Jack Driscoll in 2016 and 2017 before Driscoll transferred to Auburn.
Rodgers also grew up an Eagles fan and shared photos of him and his dad at an Eagles game.
Rodgers Is Suspended For The 2023 Season
Rodgers was suspended for violating the NFL’s gambling policy. Rodgers admitted to gambling on NFL games, including Colts’ contests, prompting a one-year suspension.
Indianapolis wasted no time cutting ties with Rodgers, releasing him just minutes after the suspension was announced. Later, Rodgers apologized and vowed to rectify his mistakes in the process.
Eagles Will Own Rodgers Rights Once Reinstated
After signing with Philadelphia, the Eagles immediately placed Rodgers on the Reserve Suspended list. As a result, Rodgers will not be paid and will not join the Eagles until he is reinstated by commissioner Roger Goodell, which won’t happen until at least the 2024 season.
That also means Rodgers will not count at all against the Eagles’ salary cap or 53-man roster in 2023.
While no details regarding the contract have been released, Rodgers inked a four-year, $3.44 million contract when the Colts drafted him in the sixth round of the 2020 draft. Prior to his suspension, he was set to earn $2.7 million in 2023.
The signing is just another example of how Roseman and the Eagles’ front office are always thinking one step ahead.
What Does CB Isaiah Rodgers Bring To The Eagles?
Rodgers will fill two key areas of need for the Eagles.
Last season, Rodgers earned a PFF grade of 82.1, which was tied for the 5th-highest mark in the league among cornerbacks with at least 250 snaps last year. With the Colts, Rodgers was effective against both the pass and the run. His 81.5 coverage grade was 6th-highest and his 75.5 run defense grade was the 20th-best mark in the NFL.
Not only will he add depth to a talented room of defensive backs, but the former Colts’ cornerback also has experience as a returner.
A talented kick and punt returner, Rodgers has had some success on special teams in the NFL.
Here are some of his best returns, by year.
- 2020: 101-yard return for a TD
- 2021: 72-yard return
- 2022: 45-yard return
