The Eagles are facing a crucial offseason decision: can they re-sign edge rusher Jaelan Phillips? But that's just one piece of the puzzle for a team that prioritizes building from the trenches out, both on the offensive and defensive lines.
As Eagles GM Howie Roseman noted at the NFL Scouting Combine, "We usually take seven or eight edge rushers to camp, and we only have three on the roster right now." Those currently under contract for 2026 include Nolan Smith, Jalyx Hunt, and Jose Ramirez, who joined via a futures contract.
There's a potential solution in Dani Dennis-Sutton, a Delaware native with impressive measurables and athleticism reminiscent of Phillips. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 268 pounds, Dennis-Sutton has a background in basketball and track, adding to his appeal. He's projected as a third-round pick, and the Eagles hold two selections in that round.
The Eagles also have needs to address on the offensive line, tight end, and possibly at wide receiver, should they trade A.J. Brown.
Their draft picks include No. 23 in the first round and No. 54 in the second, with potential edge rushers like Miami's Akheem Mesidor and Oklahoma's R. Thomas Mason on the board.
Dennis-Sutton has already spent time with the Eagles' coaching staff at the Senior Bowl, working closely with defensive line coach Clint Hurtt. This experience gave the Eagles a firsthand look at his skills and versatility, which extends to special teams-a key aspect, considering he tied a school record at Penn State with three blocked punts last season.
The Eagles have a history of utilizing defensive linemen on special teams, with players like Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis making impactful plays last season. Dennis-Sutton's ability to contribute in multiple roles makes him an attractive option.
With veterans like Joshua Uche, Azeez Ojulari, and Ogbo Okoronkwo entering free agency, and Brandon Graham's uncertain future, the Eagles' need for depth at edge rusher is clear. Phillips, who was acquired from Miami for a third-round pick, showed his potential with 34 pressures in the final eight games. However, his market value might outpace what the Eagles can offer.
Even if Phillips returns, Dennis-Sutton could fit seamlessly into a rotation with Hunt, Smith, and possibly a veteran free agent. For Dennis-Sutton, joining the Eagles would be a homecoming of sorts, with his family close by in Millsboro.
His journey from a basketball tournament recruit to an NFL prospect highlights his athleticism and potential impact. As he puts it, moving to The McDonogh School was "the biggest blessing I ever had." Now, he's poised to take the next step in his football career.