Eagles add former Steelers safety after losing C.J. Gardner-Johnson

The Philadelphia Eagles didn’t have to look far for a potential replacement for safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson. They found one from right across the state.

Terrell Edmunds often served as the stable force behind Minkah Fitzpatrick in Pittsburgh. With the Steelers, Fitzpatrick roams the secondary, looking to make game-changing plays on the fly. It’s what makes him one of the best safeties in football.

For that style to be successful, however, Fitzpatrick needs a solid safety next to him who can stay home and offer reliable help when necessary. Edmunds has his fundamentals in order, and should transition well to a Philadelphia defense built around a strong defensive line and pass rush. That same pass rush should offer Edmunds more opportunities to make plays on the ball, as well.

Eagles replace C.J. Gardner-Johnson with Steelers safety

Philly made an offer to Gardner-Johnson, but he ultimately got a better one from the Detroit Lions. Gardner-Johnson was one of several Eagles defensive stars to leave this offseason, and Philadelphia is scrambling to replace them in some way, shape or form.

As for the Steelers, replacing Edmunds will not be easy. Pittsburgh wasn’t aggressive in their pursuit of the former first-round pick out of Virginia Tech, meaning perhaps they know something the Eagles don’t. Omar Khan’s plan at the position is unknown at this time. And with the first (and second) wave of free agency behind us, it’s safe to assume Pittsburgh will add secondary help in the NFL Draft. Cornerback is also a position of weakness for the Steelers.

Edmunds durability is his strength. He rarely misses time, and when he does, it’s noticed. He’s one of the better tacklers in any secondary, particular the Eagles, where he’ll play with the likes of Darius Slay on the back end.