Eagles Trying to Sign Defensive Star Before Free Agency

Philadelphia looking to keep key pieces of its top-ranked defense together.

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

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The Philadelphia Eagles are working to sign defensive tackle Jordan Davis to a contract extension, making him the highest-paid nose tackle in the NFL. The team is also trying to re-sign defensive end Jaelan Phillips before he hits free agency, as part of an effort to keep its defensive front intact after the unit carried the team last season.

Why it matters

The Eagles' defense was the strength of the team in 2025, ranking 5th in scoring, while the offense struggled. Retaining key defensive players like Davis and Phillips is crucial for Philadelphia to build on that success and remain a contender in the NFC.

The details

The Eagles acquired Phillips from the Miami Dolphins last season, and he made an immediate impact, recording 2 sacks, 4 passes defended, 1 forced fumble, and 1 fumble recovery in 8 games with Philadelphia. The 26-year-old has struggled with injuries in his career, but played in all 17 regular-season games last year.

  • The Eagles agreed to an extension with defensive tackle Jordan Davis, making him the highest-paid nose tackle in NFL history.
  • Jaelan Phillips is set to become an unrestricted free agent on March 9 at 12:00 PM EST, when other teams can begin negotiating with him.
  • The new NFL league year and free agency officially open on March 11 at 4:00 PM EST.

The players

Jordan Davis

A defensive tackle for the Philadelphia Eagles who the team has agreed to a contract extension with, making him the highest-paid nose tackle in the NFL.

Jaelan Phillips

A defensive end for the Philadelphia Eagles who is set to become an unrestricted free agent, and the team is trying to re-sign him before he hits the open market.

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What they’re saying

“An offseason goal for Philly was keeping its defensive front intact — Jordan Davis, Jaelan Carter, [Jaelan] Phillips.”

— Jeremy Fowler, ESPN Reporter (X (formerly Twitter)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.