The Philadelphia Eagles are preparing for a strategically complex 2025 season, following their stunning victory in Super Bowl LVI. As the team navigates post-championship adjustments, a notable shift in personnel is underway, with significant departures and acquisitions shaping the roster.
In a major move with financial ramifications, the Eagles bid farewell to several key players, including defensive end Josh Sweat, who signed with the Arizona Cardinals, and cornerback Darius Slay, released only to ink a deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Their free agency strategy included ensuring financial flexibility, particularly in anticipation of crucial contract extensions for star players like Pro Bowl center Cam Jurgens and All-Pro defensive tackle Jalen Carter.
In addition to Sweat and Slay, the Eagles also lost defensive tackle Milton Williams to the New England Patriots and cornerback Isaiah Rodgers to the Minnesota Vikings. A significant trade involved safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson moving to the Houston Texans in exchange for offensive lineman Kenyon Green, while linebacker Oren Burks signed with the Cincinnati Bengals.
Despite these changes, the Eagles have made strategic acquisitions to fortify their depth. They signed tight ends Harrison Bryant and Kylen Granson to one-year deals and re-signed All-Pro linebacker Zack Baun to a substantial three-year, $51 million contract. In a groundbreaking development, Saquon Barkley was given a record-breaking contract extension worth $20 million annually, making him the first running back in the NFL to reach that milestone.
As speculation heats up, reports surfaced that the Eagles might be looking to trade key players, including tight end Dallas Goedert and defensive end Bryce Huff. According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, "The Eagles have been open to trade talks involving TE Dallas Goedert and DE Bryce Huff." Goedert, whose cap hit is projected at $12.06 million this year, is entering the final year of his contract. Although he remains a formidable tight end, his injuries—having missed 15 games over the past three seasons—complicate matters for the team.
Similarly, Huff, who signed a three-year, $51.1 million contract after a strong showing with the New York Jets, struggled to make an impact with the Eagles, tallying only 2.5 sacks in 12 games and participating in just 39% of defensive snaps. His disappointing performance led to being inactive during the Super Bowl. The Eagles appear ready to move on from both players if the right trade opportunities arise.
In the midst of these roster changes, the Eagles are also looking ahead at the upcoming NFL Draft. With eight picks in the 2025 draft and 12 in the 2026 draft, the team stands poised to rebuild strategically. Recent mock drafts suggest potential selections include Derrick Harmon, a defensive tackle out of Oregon, and Harold Fannin, a tight end from Bowling Green, whom the Eagles might target to eventually replace Goedert.
Harmon, who recorded 5 sacks and 10 tackles for loss last season, has the potential to be a valuable addition to the Eagles' defensive line. Meanwhile, Fannin, who excelled with 117 receptions and 1,555 yards at Bowling Green, could provide immediate depth at tight end and be groomed for a starting role.
The draft will be critical for the Eagles as they aim to fill the gaps left by departed players and bolster positions of need. With the trade of Gardner-Johnson, the team is expected to look for a safety to shore up that position as well.
The Eagles’ coaching staff, led by head coach Nick Sirianni, faces the challenge of integrating new players and developing a cohesive strategy for the upcoming season. As they review game tape, NFL Films senior producer Greg Cosell provided insights on incoming talent during a recent episode of ESPN’s "NFL Matchup Show." Cosell shared his observations on players including Azeez Ojulari, Josh Uche, Harrison Bryant, and Adoree Jackson, giving fans a closer look at new Eagles who will be crucial to the team's preparation.
With free agency and the draft looming, excitement continues to build around the Eagles' strategies for sustaining their competitive edge in an evolving NFL landscape. As they embark on this journey, the organization remains focused on ensuring that the taste of victory from their recent championship continues to resonate throughout the team and its fanbase.
Brandon Graham, a stalwart of the Eagles' defense for 15 seasons, announced his retirement on March 18, 2025, closing the chapter on a remarkable career that included two Super Bowl wins. His leadership and contributions to the team will be missed as the organization transitions to a new era.
