Eagles' Offseason Moves: Balancing Present and Future

The Philadelphia Eagles enter the 2025 NFL Draft with a clear strategy: prioritize long-term sustainability while remaining competitive. Despite losing key veterans like C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Darius Slay Jr., and Josh Sweat, the front office remains confident in its ability to reload.

"I think we had an incredible roster. I think we'll still go into the next season with a superb roster," said chairman and CEO Jeffrey Lurie. The team’s ability to develop young talent (Jalen Carter, Quinyon Mitchell, Cooper DeJean) offsets the departure of high-priced veterans.

Key Departures and Replacements

• Secondary Shakeup: Trading Gardner-Johnson and releasing Slay raises questions, but Reed Blankenship, Sydney Brown, and new arrival Adoree’ Jackson provide depth.
• Pass Rush Transition: With Josh Sweat and Brandon Graham gone, Azeez Ojulari and Joshua Uche must elevate their play alongside Nolan Smith Jr..
• O-Line Adjustments: Mekhi Becton’s departure opens the door for Tyler Steen or Kenyon Green to emerge at guard.

Financial Flexibility and Draft Strategy

GM Howie Roseman emphasized the need to balance immediate success with future contracts:

"We have 20 picks in the next two drafts. We’re incomplete now, but talent acquisition season isn’t over."

With 8 picks in 2025 and 12 projected in 2026, Philadelphia can aggressively trade up or address weaknesses midseason.

Are the Eagles Still NFC Favorites?

Pros:

• Loaded offense (Hurts, Barkley, A.J. Brown, elite O-line).
• Vic Fangio’s defensive scheme maximizes young talent.
• Proven front office with a track record of savvy moves.

Cons:

• Depth concerns at safety and edge rusher.
• Relying on rookies for immediate impact.

Verdict: The Eagles remain a top-tier contender, but repeating requires flawless execution from Roseman’s next wave of additions.