Should The Eagles Bring Back Safety Jalen Mills After Giants Release?

The New York Giants have released veteran defensive back Jalen Mills, sparking speculation about a potential return to Philadelphia for the former Eagles Super Bowl champion. Mills, 30, was on the non-football injury (NFI) list with a calf strain but is now reportedly healthy and expected to draw interest from teams around the NFL.

Originally drafted by the Eagles in the seventh round of the 2016 NFL Draft, Mills spent his first five seasons in Philadelphia. During his tenure, he played a crucial role in the team's Super Bowl LII victory over the New England Patriots. Known for his distinctive green hair and fiery on-field persona, Mills became a fan favorite and embodied the underdog spirit of that championship team.

The Eagles currently have a need for depth at the safety position, making Mills an intriguing option. While C.J. Gardner-Johnson is locked in as a starter, the team could benefit from adding experienced talent to complement young players like Reed Blankenship. Mills' positional flexibility, having played both cornerback and safety at the NFL level, could prove valuable for an Eagles secondary that has seen some changes this offseason.

Bringing Mills back would also add veteran leadership to the locker room. His familiarity with Philadelphia and understanding of what it takes to win a championship could be invaluable for younger players. Additionally, Mills' skill set and understanding of NFL defenses could allow him to quickly acclimate to Sean Desai’s defensive system.

From a financial perspective, Mills could be a cost-effective addition. Coming off an injury and at this stage of the preseason, he likely wouldn't command a large salary, making him a potential bargain signing for the Eagles' front office.

Related: Cowboys Offer Odd Scouting Report on QB Trey Lance: Eagles NFC East Tracker

However, the team will need to consider Mills' recent injury history and whether he can still perform at a high level in a starting or rotational role. The team must also weigh how his addition would impact the development of younger players in the secondary.

As the Eagles continue to fine-tune their roster for the 2024 season, bringing back Jalen Mills could provide valuable depth, experience, and a connection to the team's recent championship past. While it's unclear if Philadelphia will pursue this reunion, Mills' availability certainly presents an intriguing option for the Eagles to consider as they look to bolster their secondary and make another push for Super Bowl contention.