The Philadelphia Eagles have announced that they have cut defensive end Jason Babin.
“We appreciate everything that Jason has given this team over the last couple of years. We wish him all the best as he continues his career,” Coach Andy Reid said in a statement released by the team. “By releasing him today, this gives us an opportunity to give more playing time to some of younger guys in the defensive line rotation.”
Jason Babin signed with the Eagles for a second time in 2011 on a five-year deal for $28 million and produced 18 sacks last season. But with only 5.5 sacks this season and $16 million left to pay in the next three years, Jason became expendable to second-round pick Vinny Curry.
Babin spoke with ESPN’s Trey Wingo on NFL Live this afternoon.
“Maybe it was the best thing for me,” Babin said. “I think it’s pretty clear what my intentions are. I like to win, I like to compete, and I like to sack the quarterback. I imagine there’s someone out there looking for that.”
Jason Babin was drafted by the Houston Texans in 2004 before joining the Seattle Seahawks in 2007. He also played one-year stints for the Kansas City Chiefs (2008), Philadelphia Eagles (2009) and Tennessee Titans (2010) where he revised his career with 58 tackles and 12.5 sacks and a Pro Bowl appearance.
Babin then followed Titans defensive line coach Jim Washburn back to Philadelphia in 2011.
He will have to clear through waivers before becoming a free agent. It remains to be seen if there is a market for a 32-year old defensive end that has produced 36 sacks in the last three years.
