Eagles Looking Ahead
By: Padraig Smith
Introduction
After winning the Super Bowl in February 2025, the Eagles are now aiming for a repeat. They are reloading, not rebuilding, as General Manager Howie Roseman has done in the past. Building new pieces and fixing areas of need define the moves in free agency and the draft to stay at a championship level and address the losses that would be felt in depth and performance.
Key Additions
Azeez Ojulari (Edge Rusher): One of the biggest moves that the Eagles made was signing edge rusher Azeez Ojulari on a one-year, $4 million contract. A second-round pick from the New York Giants, Ojulari had a strong rookie season with 8 sacks but struggled with injuries in subsequent seasons. The Eagles hope that Ojulari can help add another pass rusher to their already-imposing defensive front. He adds crucial depth to a pass rush that was a strength last year. The recovery and performance of Ojulari will be a main storyline this season.
Adoree’ Jackson (Cornerback): This should help the secondary because they signed veteran cornerback Adoree’ Jackson on a one-year deal this offseason. Jackson brings that experience to the corner position, having spent several seasons with the Titans in Tennessee. Throughout his career, Jackson has been a proven cover corner in his eight years, and his leadership will be invaluable as he mentors the many young corners as they grow and develop. With Darius Slay gone, Jackson’s role in the Philadelphia secondary will be instrumental to the entire defense.
Joshua Uche (Linebacker): With Josh Sweat gone, the Eagles made a smart move by signing linebacker Joshua Uche from the New England Patriots. Uche’s pass-rushing ability will help fill the hole left by Sweat and contribute to a defense that prioritizes getting after the quarterback. Uche gives the Eagles more flexibility in their defensive schemes. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio will bring a new wrinkle to the defense.
Harrison Bryant (Tight End): Another big tight end was signed to a one-year deal. Harrison Bryant is known for his sure hands and his ability to score in big moments. He adds to an already deep tight end room. He played for the Cleveland Browns and the Las Vegas Raiders, so he brings a combination of experience and versatility to the passing game as the Eagles try to expand their playbook.
Biggest Losses
The Eagles have added some really good pieces to their roster; however, some larger ones were lost in the process of replacement.
Josh Sweat (Pass Rusher): One of the biggest losses was pass rusher Josh Sweat, who signed with the Arizona Cardinals in free agency. Sweat had been a major contributor to the pass rush, and the rest of the defense will now have to step up.
Kenneth Gainwell (Running Back): The Eagles’ second running back, Kenneth Gainwell, has joined the Pittsburgh Steelers. It’s tough to find someone similar to replace his running and receiving versatility.
Darius Slay (Cornerback): Cornerback Darius Slay was released, having been a part of the Eagles’ secondary for years. Slay’s leadership and playmaking were huge for this Super Bowl run, and now he’s gone. Supposedly, a future replacement will offset this loss, but really, the Eagles will need their younger corners to step up big to keep the secondary elite.
Mekhi Becton (Offensive Lineman): Mekhi Becton brings a problem in depth to the line. He adapted quickly to the line to provide depth and versatility. The Eagles have great starters, but this loss highlights the importance of depth in the trenches, especially since the line is crucial to the offense.
Other Moves
Zack Baun (Linebacker): The Eagles re-signed linebacker Zack Baun to a 3-year, $51M extension after his impressive postseason play. Baun earned a significant contract by consistently performing well in big moments against high-powered offenses. His leadership and ability to adapt to Fangio’s schemes will be crucial in maintaining an elite defense.
Saquon Barkley (Running Back): The Eagles invested heavily in Saquon Barkley to add him to their elite roster after a remarkable season as the lead back. Barkley had one of the best seasons a running back has ever had and will likely become the focal point of the offense alongside Jalen Hurts. This big and fast back excels at running and catching.
Lane Johnson (Offensive Tackle): Lane Johnson is yet another of those top tackles in the league who just got a contract extension with $30 million guaranteed. This locks Johnson up as part of the Eagle’s offensive line for the foreseeable future. Johnson is a 6x Pro Bowler and has been huge in the Super Bowl win as well as the Eagles’ overall success. His offense will be topped up with great leadership and protection of Jalen Hurts.
Looking Ahead
Looking Ahead The 2025 schedule will be tough. As Super Bowl champions, they will be expected to perform even better and face the best of the competition. With Azeez Ojulari and Adoree’ Jackson added, and with the return of both Lane Johnson and Saquon Barkley, the Eagles are one of the favorites to win it all. With Howie Roseman at the helm, the Eagles are keeping the core of their champions and adapting to the NFL.
They made their moves in free agency and the upcoming draft to become one of the top teams in the league. Now, we will see how all these pieces fit together and if they can replace what they lost to win once again.
