Eagles Facing Jalen Carter Decision After 3rd NFL Season

Now, as the 2026 offseason kicks off, the Eagles face a critical decision regarding Carter’s future. He remains under contract through next season on his rookie deal, a four-year, fully guaranteed contract worth about $21.8 million signed in 2023, with a fifth-year option for 2027 valued around $27.1 million available to the team. 

While he remains under contract, the Athletic’s Zac Berman argues that Philadelphia should take an aggressive approach now rather than waiting. According to Berman, the franchise could exercise Carter’s fifth-year option and then negotiate a long-term extension that would provide a four-year, $132 million package (including the option year), which would amount to an average of $35 million per year.

This figure would make him the highest-paid defensive tackle in the league, ahead of players like Kansas City Chiefs’ DT Chris Jones. Spreading the cap hit over multiple seasons would give both sides stability and reward Carter while they’re still in prime contract years. 

What makes the timing attractive for the Eagles is that Carter is under contract in 2026 and the team has control of his 2027 salary via the option year. By locking him in now, General Manager Howie Roseman can make a move similar to what they did with DeVonta Smith in 2024 and secure one of their defensive anchors before his market value grows even further. 

With Carter entering what should be his prime years, the Eagles’ front office appear poised to prioritize keeping their defensive core intact. Whether they choose to pick up the fifth-year option first or negotiate a full long-term deal quickly, this offseason’s handling of Carter’s contract will be one of the most crucial decisions in Philadelphia’s bid to remain a contender.