The Philadelphia Eagles are staring down a pivotal offseason, and the decisions they make over the next few months could reshape the roster in a big way before the 2026 season kicks off. With coaching changes, aging veterans, and a long list of pending free agents, GM Howie Roseman has his work cut out for him. And while some moves are about building for the future, others may be about cutting ties with players who no longer fit - whether due to performance, contract value, or simply a changing direction.
Let’s dig into three names who could be on the outside looking in when the Eagles take the field next fall.
Michael Carter II: A Price Tag That Doesn’t Match the Production
When the Eagles traded for Michael Carter II just before the 2025 deadline, it looked like a savvy move. A versatile slot corner with starting experience, Carter II was supposed to bolster a secondary that desperately needed help.
He even agreed to waive a $5 million injury guarantee to make the deal happen. But fast forward to now, and the numbers tell a different story.
Carter II logged just 106 defensive snaps in eight games with the Eagles - not exactly the impact you want from a player carrying a $10.12 million cap hit. Sure, that figure isn’t outrageous for a high-level nickel corner, but Carter II didn’t play like one. Add in his injury history, and it’s hard to justify bringing him back on his current deal.
Could he return on a restructured contract? That’s possible.
He’s still only owed $1.384 million in guarantees, and his versatility as a hybrid corner/safety could appeal to the Eagles if they’re looking for depth. But make no mistake: unless a new deal is worked out, Carter II is a prime candidate to be released or moved.
Jake Elliott: A Philly Staple Facing an Uncertain Future
Jake Elliott has been a fixture in Philadelphia since 2017, and he’s had some unforgettable moments - from clutch postseason kicks to that iconic 63-yarder to beat the Giants. But 2025 was a rough year, arguably the worst of his career. His struggles were so pronounced that head coach Nick Sirianni at times opted to bypass the kicking game altogether, and fans began calling for a midseason kicking competition.
By the time the Eagles bowed out in the Wild Card Round against the 49ers, Elliott’s performance had become a glaring issue. And now, with the offseason underway, it’s fair to wonder if the team will look for a fresh start at kicker.
The financials complicate things. Elliott carries the 15th-highest cap hit on the roster at $5.521 million, and there’s still $13 million in guaranteed money on his deal.
Cutting him wouldn’t be easy, and it would come with a dead money hit. But if the Eagles identify a reliable challenger this offseason, Roseman may be forced to make a tough call.
After all, in a league where games often come down to one possession, missed kicks can’t be a recurring theme.
Sydney Brown: High Hopes, Inconsistent Results
When the Eagles selected Sydney Brown on Day 2 of the draft, the vision was clear: a rangy, hard-hitting safety who could patrol the deep middle and bring physicality to the box. But two seasons in, Brown’s tenure has been defined more by erratic play and unfortunate collisions than by consistent impact.
The most telling moment? A hit that left fellow Eagle Andrew Mukuba sidelined with a fractured ankle - a brutal reminder that Brown’s aggressive play style can sometimes hurt his own team more than the opponent.
On special teams, he’s flashed the athleticism to be a difference-maker, especially alongside Kelee Ringo as a gunner. But even there, untimely penalties have chipped away at his value.
Still, with one year left on his rookie deal, there’s no pressing financial reason to move on. Brown could stick around as a depth piece and special teams contributor.
But if the Eagles bolster the secondary through the draft or free agency - and that seems likely - Brown could find himself on the roster bubble. It may come down to whether the team sees enough upside to keep investing in his development, or if they’d rather roll the dice on a younger, more disciplined option.
What Comes Next?
The Eagles aren’t in rebuild mode, but they are in transition. After a disappointing end to the 2025 season, the front office has to make some hard evaluations - not just about who can play, but who fits the team’s identity moving forward. For players like Carter II, Elliott, and Brown, the coming months will be critical.
Roseman has built a reputation for making bold, calculated moves. Expect more of the same this offseason.
Whether it's restructuring deals, bringing in competition, or cutting ties altogether, the Eagles are poised to reshape the back end of their roster. And when training camp opens, don’t be surprised if some familiar faces are no longer in midnight green.