The Philadelphia Eagles have made notable changes to their roster by signing linebacker Azeez Ojulari and reworking the contract of right tackle Lane Johnson. The announcement came on March 17, 2025, marking key strategic moves for the defending champions as they gear up for the new NFL season.
Azeez Ojulari, formerly with the New York Giants, signed a one-year deal worth $4 million, as confirmed by sources including ESPN and The Athletic. The 24-year-old pass rusher was part of the Giants’ lineup since being drafted as the second-round pick (No. 50 overall) of the 2021 NFL Draft. Over his four years with the Giants, he collected 22 sacks, with his most productive season being his rookie year, where he achieved eight sacks.
Last season, Ojulari participated in 11 games, starting five, and managed to register six sacks, which brought his career totals to 107 tackles, 22 sacks, four forced fumbles, and three fumble recoveries across 46 games played. Despite his capability, Ojulari has faced challenges maintaining consistent health, having not played more than 11 games during any of his three seasons following his rookie year. Last year alone, he dealt with multiple injuries, which led him to the injured reserve list.
According to reports, Ojulari's addition aims to bolster the Eagles' pass rush, especially following the departure of edge rusher Josh Sweat, who has signed with the Arizona Cardinals. The Eagles have also recently added former New England Patriots pass-rusher Josh Uche, providing them with more versatility on the defensive front.
The team's move to sign Ojulari aligns with the Eagles' strategy to invest in younger talent, particularly as they look to maintain competitiveness after their Super Bowl win. Coach Nick Sirianni expressed confidence, stating, "Bringing Azeez on board reinforces our commitment to strengthening our defense and ensuring we have multiple strong options to pressure opposing quarterbacks.”
Ojulari is not the only new face at the Eagles. He joins former teammate Adoree' Jackson, who also made his transition from the Giants to Philadelphia by signing a one-year deal earlier this month, creating new dynamics within the team.
Meanwhile, Lane Johnson has secured his position with the Eagles extending his contract, which now guarantees his role through the 2027 season. At 35 years old, Johnson is still seen as one of the premier right tackles in the league. He originally joined the Eagles as the fourth overall pick from the Oklahoma Sooners during the 2013 NFL Draft. Johnson’s new contract includes $8 million added over the next two years and $30 million guaranteed, which lowers his salary cap hit for the upcoming season.
The six-time Pro Bowl selection is coming off another impressive year, contributing to one of the top offensive lines, recognized for leading the Eagles to their Super Bowl victory. Johnson stated, “I’m excited to continue my career with the Eagles. Our goals remain the same, and I’m committed to helping the team succeed.”
For the Eagles, the combination of Ojulari’s and Johnson’s contracts demonstrates their focus on securing talent and maintaining strong veteran presence moving forward. Adding Ojulari helps the Eagles address their need for depth among pass rushers following Snyder's exit, and his previous experience against NFC East rivals proves beneficial.
Overall, the Eagles' offseason moves, particularly the addition of Ojulari and the extension of Johnson, mark significant steps toward reshaping their team dynamics for the upcoming season. With Ojulari’s potential to capitalize when healthy, and Johnson’s established veteran leadership, Philadelphia aims to build on their recent successes and remain competitive within the league.
With these strategic developments, Eagles fans are eager to see how the new roster adjustments will play out as the team prepares for the 2025 NFL season.
