According to a league source the Atlanta Falcons have finalized a trade with the Philadelphia Eagles to acquire Pro-Bowl cornerback Asante Samuel. As apart of the deal Samuel had to agree to restructure his contract worth about $21.5 million over the next two seasons. Both sides agreed to $18.5 million for three years. Samuel, a four-time Pro-Bowl pick gives the Falcons a defensive trio including Dunta Robinson and Brent Grimes. Samuel clocked in 30 tackles and three interceptions in 2011. Despite playing well he became expendable when the Eagles acquired Nnamdi Asmougha and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie. Though the two struggled in their new defensive roles, tension between the front office and Samuel made him the clear choice to be traded.
It is not clear exactly what the Falcons are giving the Eagles in return but it’s said to be a 5-7th round draft pick. That’s pretty low for someone of Samuel’s caliber but the Eagles were set on removing him from the team, as I’m sure Samuel was as well.
Shaina (@Shay_Marie)
