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Ex-Eagles DE slams Patriots fans, finally revealing role in luring Tom Brady's RB

Originally posted on Inside the Iggles | By Gourab Saha | Last updated Jul 18, 2025 6:00 PM ET

Chris Long just dropped a bombshell Eagles fans will savor like a cold one at a tailgate. Think back to the 2017 offseason. Fresh off a Patriots Super Bowl win, Long shocked many by signing with Philly. But what happened next was straight out of a football spy thriller.

On Exciting Mics this week, Long finally revealed his clandestine role in a major Eagles coup, all while taking a playful jab at a certain fanbase’s notorious sensitivity. It’s a story of loyalty, persuasion, and a little old-fashioned revenge.

"If we lose this game, they're going to cry... and they're going to be like, 'You idiot. You never should have left New England,'" Long quipped about Patriots fans' predictable reaction to departures. His insight cuts deep, highlighting the pressure players feel leaving Foxborough and the unique freedom found in Philly. But this wasn't all.

The revelation? Long wasn't just joining the Birds—he became Howie Roseman’s secret weapon to poach Tom Brady's Patriots running back LeGarrette Blount. Fresh off his league-leading 18 rushing touchdowns in New England, Blount was a free agent prize. Long, sensing an opportunity, picked up the phone.

"I'll never forget calling LG," Long recounted on the podcast, perfectly mimicking the moment. "Bro, it's awesome here. I've been talking to these people, I just signed. Like, you need to get down here." Blount, initially hesitant, said, "You know what? There's a chance."

Soon he walked into the NovaCare Complex weight room. Long’s reaction? Pure Philly joy: "Bro, we're reunited." Blount’s dry reply? "Let's see how it goes." And a year later, they were facing their old team in Super Bowl LII. Talk about full circle! But this wasn't just a friendly chat. Long’s pitch was crucial.

The Eagles, needing a power back, faced competition from Arizona and New York. Blount’s signing on May 17, 2017, for a max of $2.8 million, filled a massive hole. He became the "battering ram" complement to Darren Sproles’ lightning. Long’s inside move directly shaped the Eagles' identity. Imagine that Super Bowl run without Blount’s 766 yards and physicality paving the way? It’s unthinkable. His presence allowed Carson Wentz (and later Nick Foles) to operate with a balanced, punishing attack.

Long's Locker Room Leadership: Beyond the Stats

Long’s impact in Philly transcended his 11.5 sacks. He arrived as a respected veteran. A Super Bowl champ hungry for a new challenge. And he showcased an immediate understanding of the Eagles' culture—proactive, bold, and player-driven. This helped him in bringing in his old comrade to his new team.

Blount's 2016 vs. 2017 Impact:

Blount’s touchdown count dipped, sharing carries, sure. But more crucially, his physical style wore down defenses, directly enabling the Eagles' diverse offense and that magical postseason run. Long facilitated the perfect thunder to Sproles' lightning. His knowledge of Blount from New England was the key Roseman needed. Besides, Long’s revelation underscores a vital Eagles philosophy.

Targeted veteran leadership wins. Long's signing and subsequent recruitment of Blount mirrored Roseman’s strategy that year, adding Alshon Jeffery, Torrey Smith, and Timmy Jernigan. Long saw Philly’s potential instantly and actively built it. He wasn’t just a pass-rusher; he was a culture catalyst and an unlikely GM’s aide. And his willingness to openly discuss the Pats' fan dynamic adds a layer of authenticity that Eagles faithful adore.

This peek behind the curtain reminds us... It reminds us that championships are built on more than Xs and Os. It’s about players like Long recognizing a special opportunity and seizing it. Even making the pivotal phone call. As Long himself might appreciate, it proves a timeless gridiron truth: sometimes the best blocks aren’t thrown on the field but dialed on the phone.

This article first appeared on Inside the Iggles and was syndicated with permission.

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