Eagles Might Sign Former Player Hollis Thomas

This may be a case of a former team doing a “solid” for a past veteran, but surprisingly, the Philadelphia Eagles might bring in defensive tackle Hollis Thomas. 

The big 335-pound run stuffer has been on the market since the end of the 2008 regular season when the New Orleans Saints cut ties with him for lack of production—eight games played (only two starts), finishing with seven total tackles. 

Recently, Eagles team spokesman Derek Boyko told the media that the Eagles' team doctor performed a physical on Thomas last month.

Thomas, a gregarious player with a solid anchor, was always a fan favorite during his time with the Birds from 1996-2006.  However, the former Northern Illinois undrafted free agent, who was first noticed by the Eagles in a highlight video with the hip-hop soundtrack “I’m No Joke," seems to be close to the end of his productive NFL career.

The 35-year-old has spent the last three seasons with Saints, but injuries have definitely taken a toll on his fire hydrant-like body.  Right now, I think both sides are in the exploratory mode until training camp starts on July 25 at Lehigh University. 

If Thomas does join the Eagles as a space-eater, he will have to compete with younger players (Mike Patterson, Brodrick Bunkley, Trevor Laws, Dan Klecko, and rookie Jervonte Jackson) for playing time.

Thomas’s current career numbers after 12 NFL seasons stand at 368 tackles, seven forced fumbles, and 20 sacks.