Eagles free-agent targets: LB Akeem Ayers

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Akeem Ayers, OLB
Age: 25
Height: 6-3
Weight: 255
Last team: New England Patriots

Scouting report
A high second-round pick (39th overall) of the Titans in 2011, Ayers managed just six sacks in 34 games for the Titans before being dealt to the Patriots two games into 2014. With New England, he started four of the games he played in and logged four sacks and an interception. For his career, Ayers has started 47 games of the 59 games he’s played, compiled 13 sacks, three interceptions and three forced fumbles. He made $1.05 million last year to finish out his rookie deal.

Geoff’s take
He’s one of those good-but-not-great pass rushers who plays well in spurts but isn’t going to be a game-changing starting edge rusher. The open market is usually kind to 25-year-old pass rushers who have shown glimpses of breaking out, so Ayers will probably have some suitors. He has the length and frame Chip Kelly likes but I suspect the Eagles would only be willing to bring him in as a backup making a modest salary. Ayers will likely do better financially elsewhere.

Roob’s take
Ayers is the kind of guy you put on your list, and if he’s still on the market after a few weeks and his price is coming down and he can’t find a job as a starer, you bring him in for a chat. Ayers turns 26 in July, so he’s still young. If you can get him cheap, Ayers could be a decent depth guy in what will be a new-look linebacker corps.

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