Pederson On Tulloch Signing: ‘We Just Need Depth’

Doug Pederson. (Jeff Fusco)

Doug Pederson confirmed Stephen Tulloch will sign with the Eagles and arrive in Philadelphia later today, after the linebacker reportedly agreed to a one-year deal worth up to $3 million last night.

“Obviously, he’s familiar with Coach [Jim] Schwartz’s defense. At the same time, he’s coming in to compete for that linebacker spot there in the middle,” Pederson said. “It’s just unfortunate with the loss of Joe [Walker] right now, we just need depth right now to fill that spot. We got to see where he’s at, what his health is when he gets here.”

Pederson noted Jordan Hicks is “possibly” capable of playing outside linebacker, although the plan isn’t to move Hicks and insert Tulloch in the middle at some point. Reports surfaced two weeks ago that the Eagles were in “serious negotiations” with Tulloch, but the deal didn’t get done until the Eagles found out Walker is out for the season.

“We wanted to give an opportunity to these young guys we had,” Pederson said. “Joe was actually playing well and doing some nice things for us, so we just didn’t feel the need to do it at that time.”

Pederson also noted he’s not concerned Nigel Bradham will miss any time due to the linebacker’s alleged assault, and he declined further comment on Lane Johnson’s impending suspension. Pederson did say Carson Wentz will not throw today, because the rookie’s ribs are sore after throwing on Saturday and Sunday.