The Eagles had originally planned to release guard/tackle Allen Barbre, but instead were able to trade him to the Denver Broncos for a 2019 conditional draft pick.
Barbre was originally signed by the Eagles in 2013 and he eventually became a starter for the first time in his career. In his four seasons with the team, Barbre played in 44 games and started 28 contests over the past two years. In 2016, the 33-year-old Barbre opened nine games at left guard and three at right tackle.
"Allen Barbre is a pro's pro," said Howie Roseman. "Not only did he help the team with his solid play as a starter at left guard, but his ability to step up and play multiple positions helped us battle through some difficult situations."
Offensive coordinator Frank Reich said that Isaac Seumalo will be the starter at left guard entering Training Camp just hours prior to the team's release of Barbre. The Eagles also signed Chance Warmack, a former top-10 pick, in free agency and re-signed Stefen Wisniewski, who started six games last season.
"Isaac's the starter and then there's just competition from there, that's the great thing about Training Camp, the great thing about this business, it's just so stinking competitive," Reich said. "It's what the guys love about it. It's what we love about it, so again it'll play itself out."
Seumalo, a third-round pick last year out of Oregon State, missed most of the spring due to the NCAA graduation rule, but caught up in Training Camp and eventually started four games at three different positions (2 at right guard, 1 at left guard, and 1 at right tackle).
"Very smart. Understands what's being coached. Understands fronts, understands defensive schemes, what to anticipate. Very athletic, tough-minded player," Reich said.
Tackle Lane Johnson said it was evident in the spring how much more comfortable Seumalo is in the offense.
"He's more confident in his stance. He's probably got some of the best feet on the O-line," Johnson said. "He's extremely gifted and I think he's ready to take it up a notch."
The Eagles were 5-1 with Johnson in the starting lineup last season. He understands the importance of solidifying the top of the depth chart before the regular season gets underway.
"It'll mean everything to the team if we can get the same five guys playing week in and week out, getting better week in and week out," Johnson said. "There's no reason why we can't be one of the best lines in the league."
