Cornerback Asante Samuel jumped the Patriots’ ship Friday, signing a huge deal with Philadelphia on the first day of free agency.

Samuel’s move isn’t a surprise, as he wasn’t too pleased when he was designated the Patriots’ franchise player last year. New England generally doesn’t hand out big money, but I wonder what impact this will have on the team’s defense, which wasn’t playing as efficiently as the offense by season’s end.

The Eagles must be hoping for an immediate benefit — Samuel nabbed 10 interceptions last season, the Philly defense 11. Though the Eagles’ problems extend beyond its secondary, it’s a step in the right direction. Life is tough for an 8-8 team that finishes in last place in its division.