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Eagles Reload: Major Deadline Additions Bolster Defense
Miami Dolphins DE Jaelen Phillips, 15, practicing at OTA’s at training facility in Davie, Florida on May 26, 2021.

The Philadelphia Eagles are making big moves before the trade deadline. They added edge rusher Jaelan Phillips, cornerbacks Jaire Alexander and Michael Carter.

This is the third trade the Eagles have made in the past week. The Miami Dolphins traded Phillips in an exchange for a 2026 third-round pick.

Eagles Revived  Pass Rush With Phillips Trade

The addition of Phillips provides an additional pass-rushing asset to complement Alexander and Carter. Consequently, their defensive lineup is rapidly developing in preparation for the 2026 season.

Philadelphia required an edge rusher who could quickly win and move quarterbacks off their spot. Phillips will provide just that. Alongside Carter, he will also face many 1-on-1 matchups.

The Eagles could, though, slide an offensive lineman or a defensive tackle at the last minute, as that would be ideal. Having an actual edge rusher makes it fantastic to begin with and adds significant value.

Philadelphia currently has 52 players on their 53-man roster after recent trades and acquisitions. This count does not include the returns of Nolan Smith Jr., Brandon Graham, and Jakorian Bennett.

End Of My Philadelphia Eagles Rant


Green Bay Packers cornerback Jaire Alexander against the Miami Dolphins during their football game on Sunday, November 11, 2018, at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wis. Wm. Glasheen/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin.

Philadelphia has significantly improved its defense, creating a formidable unit. If players remain healthy, their defense may emerge as the most comprehensive in the NFC.

Phillips adds a strong pass rush from defensive end, Carter enhances the secondary with great ball awareness, and Alexander effectively covers top receivers. This trio revitalizes the Eagles’ defense and could signal the start of something special.

This was an impressive haul from Eagles general manager Howie Roseman. Phillips and the CB duo fortify the back seven smartly, and Tank Bigsby insurance feels prescient after running back Saquon Barkley’s workload.

Stacking proven talent without giving up premium picks is the classic roster chess move. Philadelphia is quietly building a playoff-proof depth chart.

This article first appeared on Stadium Rant and was syndicated with permission.

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