As the Philadelphia Eagles gear up for the new league year, they're navigating a complex salary cap landscape. With over $18 million in cap space, the Eagles have some room to maneuver, but they'll need to be strategic to maximize their flexibility.
One of the primary strategies involves extending the contracts of key players like Jalen Carter and Jordan Davis. Carter, despite battling shoulder injuries, has proven his worth as the Eagles' lone Pro Bowl starter.
In just 12 games, he racked up 33 tackles, 41 QB pressures, 11 hits on the quarterback, and three sacks. Extending his contract could free up over $2 million in cap space, and exercising his fifth-year option seems like a no-brainer.
Jordan Davis, on the other hand, could provide nearly $10 million in cap relief with a new deal. His performance on the field has been stellar, leading all NFL interior defensive linemen in run stops and ranking third in tackles. Davis’s ability to disrupt plays makes him a cornerstone of the defense, and securing his future with the team is a priority.
Philadelphia also faces over $48 million in dead money, a figure that underscores the importance of smart financial management. Dead money represents the cap charge for players no longer on the roster, often due to guaranteed money from signing bonuses.
In addition to extensions, the Eagles could consider moves like cutting Michael Carter II, releasing Sydney Brown, or trading Tyler Steen. Each of these actions would create significant cap space, allowing the team to adjust their roster as needed.
Carter II, acquired midseason, and Brown, a special teams ace, are both on the bubble. Steen, a promising third-round pick, has shown his potential but carries a substantial cap hit.
Looking ahead, the NFL projects a 2026 salary cap between $301 million and $305 million per team. Eagles GM Howie Roseman will need to balance current needs with future planning, especially with 21 players, including Reed Blankenship and Nakobe Dean, set to become free agents. Both Dean and Jaelan Phillips hold priority status, but their futures may hinge on market dynamics.
As the Eagles prepare for the offseason, the combination of strategic contract extensions and potential roster adjustments will be key to maintaining a competitive edge. With the right moves, Philadelphia can position itself for success in the coming seasons.