Eagles trying to make big move before NFL free agency

The Philadelphia Eagles’ 2025 campaign unfolded as a striking contrast between their offensive struggles and defensive dominance. The team’s offensive unit frequently stalled, leading the NFL in 3-and-out drives for the season and failing to carve out a consistent identity.

This stemmed largely from issues under the now-departed offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo, whose schemes couldn’t unlock the group’s full potential despite talented personnel.

On the flip side, the defense emerged as the squad’s backbone. While the run defense allowed more yards than desired, the unit excelled in limiting points, finishing fifth in the league for scoring defense. Time and again, the defensive group shouldered the load, keeping games close and providing opportunities for victories even when the offense faltered.

Heading into the 2026 offseason, Philadelphia appears to be mirroring that same split dynamic. On the offensive end, uncertainties loom large around key contributors. Star wide receiver A.J. Brown has voiced public frustrations repeatedly, fueling speculation that a trade could be on the horizon.

Additionally, veteran tight end Dallas Goedert seems poised to test the open market as a free agent, with expectations pointing toward a likely departure.

In contrast, the Eagles have moved swiftly to secure their defensive core. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that the team has agreed to a contract extension with standout defensive tackle Jordan Davis. This deal positions him as the highest-paid nose tackle in league history, underscoring the franchise’s commitment to bolstering its front line.

The extension with Davis aligns with broader priorities for the team this offseason.

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler posted on X that “An offseason goal for Philly was keeping its defensive front intact — Jordan Davis, Jalen Carter, [Jaelan] Phillips.” With Davis now locked in, the Eagles have checked off the first major piece of that plan.

Attention now turns to edge-rusher Jaelan Phillips, whom Philadelphia acquired from the Miami Dolphins ahead of the Nov. 4 trade deadline in 2025. Fowler noted that Phillips “is days away from the market, but the Eagles are trying with him.” Efforts to re-sign the player remain active as the team aims to preserve continuity along the defensive line.

Phillips made an instant contribution after joining the Eagles. In his debut game with the team, he delivered six tackles (four solo), one tackle for loss and one fumble recovery during a hard-fought 10-7 victory against the Green Bay Packers.

The 26-year-old defender dealt with injury setbacks earlier in his career, but he stayed durable in 2025. He appeared in all 17 regular-season contests — nine with Miami and eight with Philadelphia — tallying two sacks, four passes defended, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery, 28 tackles (14 solo), seven quarterback hits and four tackles for loss following the trade.

As an impending unrestricted free agent, Phillips becomes eligible for negotiations with other teams starting March 9 at noon EST. The new league year and the official opening of free agency arrive on March 11 at 4 p.m. EST, setting the stage for what could be a competitive pursuit if Philadelphia cannot finalize a new agreement.

Overall, the Eagles’ early offseason maneuvers highlight a clear strategic focus: fortify the defense that carried them through 2025 while navigating tougher decisions on the offensive side.

Retaining defensive talent like Davis and potentially Phillips could provide stability, even as questions persist about reshaping the attack for the year ahead.