Dallas Goedert's 13-Touchdown Season Might Not Be Enough to Keep Him in Philly
Dallas Goedert's 13-Touchdown Season Might Not Be Enough to Keep Him in Philly
Dallas Goedert scored 13 touchdowns last season. In most universes, that earns you a raise. In the NFL's version of reality, the 31-year-old tight end might have to take a pay cut just to stay in Philadelphia.
Goedert made $10 million last year and delivered one of the best seasons of his career. But as Combine week conversations heat up, the Eagles are navigating a brutal tight end decision that could reshape their entire offensive identity under new coordinator Sean Mannion.
Age vs. Production
The NFL is a cold business. Goedert turns 32 this year, and teams discount aging players regardless of production. The Eagles know this better than anyone — it's how Howie Roseman has built the roster, always staying ahead of the aging curve.
There's optimism in some circles that the depressed market could work in the Eagles' favor. If no team offers Goedert starter money on a multi-year deal, he could return to Philadelphia at a discount. But 13 touchdowns have a way of attracting attention, and it only takes one team to blow up the market.
The Roster Implications Are Massive
If Goedert walks, the Eagles don't just lose a tight end — they have to rebuild the entire room. That's a significantly harder task than retaining one proven player and building around him. Names like Pat Freiermuth from Green Bay have already been floated as potential backup additions, but finding a true TE1 in free agency or the draft is a different challenge entirely.
Mannion's offensive scheme is expected to lean heavily on the tight end position. Losing Goedert would force a complete reimagining of the passing game just as a new coordinator is trying to install his system. That's not ideal timing.
The Market Will Decide
The lean toward Goedert leaving is slightly stronger than the lean toward him returning. Somebody will value those 13 touchdowns, the years of consistent production, and the fact that everyone in the league knows how good he is. His injury history complicates things, but talent wins arguments in March.
The Eagles will set a ceiling. If the market stays reasonable, Goedert comes back and the offense has its safety net. If someone offers two years at premium money, he's gone — and the Eagles will be scrambling to fill the most important position in their passing attack. Either way, the answer comes in the next three weeks.
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