Eagles Terminate Contract of Former All-Pro Defender

The Philadelphia Eagles terminated the contract of defensive back J.T. Gray this week as the team began trimming its roster with the 53-man deadline approaching.

The move came alongside the waiving of running back Ja’Quinden Jackson with an injury designation.

Gray, 30, signed a one-year deal with Philadelphia in March after bouncing between the Baltimore Ravens, Denver Broncos, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2025.

The Eagles brought him in primarily as a special teams contributor and reserve safety following the trade of Sydney Brown. He entered camp as one of the most decorated players at his specialty in the league.

An undrafted free agent out of Mississippi State in 2018, Gray spent his first seven seasons with the New Orleans Saints. He earned First-Team All-Pro honors and a Pro Bowl selection in 2021 as a special teamer.

He also collected Second-Team All-Pro nods in 2019 and 2024. Over his career he has appeared in more than 100 games, recorded over 100 tackles, and established himself as one of the NFL’s most consistent coverage players on punts and kickoffs.

In Philadelphia, Gray competed for a depth safety role and a core special teams spot. Reports from camp indicated he slipped on the safety depth chart and did not separate enough from younger players to lock down a roster spot.

Special teams coordinator Michael Clay had previously praised Gray’s résumé and expected him to provide veteran leadership. Those plans did not materialize.

The release clears space for younger defensive backs and other special teams candidates as the Eagles finalize their initial 53-man roster. Gray’s one-year contract carried limited guarantees, typical for a veteran signed as a depth piece.

Gray’s departure continues a turbulent stretch. The Saints released him before the 2025 season despite his recent All-Pro recognition and contract extension. He then spent time on practice squads and made brief appearances with Denver and Tampa Bay before landing in Philadelphia.

At this stage of his career, Gray remains a proven special teams veteran. Teams looking for experienced coverage help or a late-camp addition may show interest once he clears waivers.

For the Eagles, the decision reflects a preference for younger or more versatile options as they prepare for the regular season.

The nine-year veteran leaves Philadelphia after a short stay that never translated into a regular role. His All-Pro and Pro Bowl credentials remain intact, even as another chapter of his career closes.