What is Chip Kelly Doing With the Philadelphia Eagles?

Jan 18, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks cornerback Byron Maxwell (41) defends a pass to Green Bay Packers wide receiver Jordy Nelson (87) during the first quarter in the NFC Championship Game at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-USA TODAY Sports

Defense in Free Agency

After signing Alonso, Kelly hit it big with the signing corners Byron Maxwell and Walter Thurmond. Maxwell held up well last year against opponent’s No. 1 receiver as Richard Sherman didn’t travel. In Maxwell, the Eagles now have the best corner in 2015 Free Agent to match up with the dynamic receivers of the NFC East.

Also at corner, the Eagles brought in Walter Thurmond, who was a key part of the Super Bowl team of 2013. That led to a one-year, prove-it deal with the New York Giants but a torn pectoral muscle kept Thurmond from proving it. This signing means the Eagles could have two very good corners and the 10th Duck becoming an Eagle.

And after cutting Trent Cole, the Eagles re-signed and promoted outside linebacker Brandon Graham. Graham had to learn how to play linebacker upon Kelly’s arrival after being selected in the first round as a defensive end in 2010. He looks to have done that and then some as he had 5.5 sacks as a backup in 2014.

Next: The Offense