Jason Peters Ruptures Achilles Tendon, the Eagles Must Act Fast

Less than 24 hours since I published a story about the Eagles need to add depth at the offensive tackle position, Jason Peters ruptured his Achilles tendon. This dramatic turn of events comes like a wrecking ball on what looked like a smooth offseason for the Eagles and will have a major effect on their draft strategy.

According to Adam Schefter, Peters suffered the injury on Tuesday, March 27, while training in Texas. However, the Eagles announced it today and confirmed that a surgery is scheduled for Tuesday, March 3.

Jason Peters has been one of the most consistent players of the team since 2009, when he arrived in Philly. He has been to five consecutive Pro Bowls and time has only made him a better player.

However, an Achilles injury is never easy to overcome and the Eagles must act fast if they want to find an adequate replacement. A torn achilles tendon needs three to four months to reach a recovery level that allows the player to practice, so Peters probably won’t be 100 percent ready for the start of the season.

Demetrius Bell, Max Starks and Marcus McNeill are still free agents and if the Eagles move swiftly, they can add one of them to their roster. They are experienced players that can provide a short term solution, since none of them is as good as Peters.

The NFL draft, though, looks like the best way to address this issue. Apparently, Howie Roseman and Andy Reid will have to redefine their draft plans—they might have to go for an offensive tackle in the first round.

If the Eagles are a bit lucky, they might be able to pick Riley Reiff or Jonathan Martin. With Peters out for the next few months and an unknown date of return, I believe that’s the way the Eagles should walk.