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SALT LAKE CITY — Days before the NFL season officially kicks off in Denver, trades are still being made. On Tuesday morning, a trade reported by NFL.com between the Philadelphia Eagles and the New England Patriots took place, sending former University of Utah player Eric Rowe to the Patriots.
The Patriots traded offensive guard Josh Kline and a fourth-round pick to the Eagles in exchange for Rowe, a 2015 second-round pick. The fourth-round pick is a conditional one and could potentially be a third-round pick if Rowe performs at a high level.
The former Utah product showed potential in college, which is why the Eagles felt comfortable taking him in the second round. In five starts last season, the Eagles didn’t like what they saw, and Rowe was projected to be fifth on the cornerback depth chart. Despite his struggles, the Patriots clearly liked what they saw or they wouldn’t have offered a decent draft pick to get him.
The Patriots have a history of taking players who weren’t successful on other teams and getting the best out of them. One example is running back LeGarrette Blount, who in 2012 had an awful season, rushing for only 151 yards. The next season in New England, Blount ran for nearly 800 yards and seven touchdowns. New England head coach Bill Belichick seems to have a nose for talent, and he’s picked out Rowe as a player he wants.
It’s unclear what role Rowe will play for the Patriots with Logan Ryan and Malcolm Butler being entrenched in the starting positions. Alabama's Cyrus Jones was the Patriots' top pick in the 2016 NFL Draft. While the defensive backfield may be crowded in New England, Rowe will likely see more play time in New England than he would have in Philadelphia.
Kline was the planned starter at left guard for the Patriots. The Eagles had concern at offensive line last season so adding depth at the position makes sense. Rookie quarterback Carson Wentz will be starting the season, and he’s already suffered a broken rib from poor protection this preseason.
Protecting the future is a high priority for the Eagles, and Rowe was a price they were willing to pay.
