Eagles Trade Rumors: Brandon Brooks Discussed in Talks Entering Free Agency

The Philadelphia Eagles have reportedly explored trading guard Brandon Brooks as they look to get under the salary cap. 

Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated reported the Eagles have discussed Brooks with other teams, though it's unclear if those talks have been fruitful. Brooks is coming off missing the entire 2020 season due to a torn Achilles.

A Pro Bowler from 2017-19, Brooks is one of the NFL's best guards when healthy. Pro Football Focus gave the 31-year-old a 92.8 overall grade in 2019, making him one of the highest-graded offensive linemen.

The Eagles would not gain much in immediate cap room by trading Brooks. Trading him before June 1 would only result in $2.3 million in cap savings, though they could net $10.5 million by dealing him after June 1.

Philadelphia is currently projected at $34.3 million over the 2021 salary cap. The team will be forced to part with high-profile veterans in the coming days regardless of Brooks' status in order to get under the cap and have money to sign draft picks.

Brooks was considered more likely to stay because he's a highly effective player and the immediate cap relief is minimal.