The most recent update on the Philadelphia Eagles involves their pursuit of former Pro Bowl linebacker Anthony Barr, who had a successful career with the Minnesota Vikings.
Despite the Eagles’ interest, Barr ultimately decided to join the Vikings instead, delivering disappointing news to Philadelphia fans. Barr, who spent the 2022 season as a starter for the Cowboys, is well-known for his eight seasons with the Vikings.
On November 13, 2023, NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reported that the Eagles hosted Anthony Barr on a free-agent visit. However, shortly after this news broke, ESPN’s Adam Schefter revealed that Barr intended to sign with the Minnesota Vikings.
Update: The #Eagles hosted ex-#Vikings 1st round pick, LB Anthony Barr, via @MikeGarafolo
He last played for the #Cowboys last season. pic.twitter.com/PGAVy8z7H5
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) November 13, 2023
The extent of Barr’s discussions with the Eagles leading up to Week 11 remains unclear, but given his extensive tenure with the Vikings, Philadelphia likely faced challenges in securing his commitment.
The Vikings, dealing with an injury to linebacker Jordan Hicks, plan to re-sign Barr, a four-time Pro Bowler. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported on November 13 that Barr, the Vikings’ first-round pick in 2014, spent eight seasons with the team.
The Eagles’ interest in Barr coincided with the placement of starting linebacker Nakobe Dean on injured reserve. Dean, who has had a challenging start to the season with only five games played, suffered a Lisfranc injury in the season opener, leading to a month-long absence. Despite his return, Dean’s injury struggles persist, and the Eagles were likely exploring Barr as a potential insurance policy.
#Eagles LB Nakobe Dean has been diagnosed with a Lisfranc sprain, sources tell me and @RapSheet. Dean, who called the defensive signals to start this season, will see a foot specialist to determine a course of action but he’s expected to be placed on IR. pic.twitter.com/SE2sEykwLW
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) November 8, 2023
Additionally, the Eagles made roster moves ahead of their matchup against the Chiefs, working out three veterans, including tight end Noah Togiai. The team explored options with guard Andrew Norwell, center Lecitus Smith, and tight end Noah Togiai. These moves were made before the confirmation of Barr joining the Vikings. With tight end Dallas Goedert sidelined, the Eagles had Jack Stoll, Grant Calcaterra, and Albert Okwuegbunam on the active roster and E.J. Jenkins on the practice squad.
In summary, the Eagles’ pursuit of Anthony Barr did not materialize, and the team made additional roster moves to address their needs as they faced the Chiefs.
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