Ex-Cowboy Clowney Could Provide Eagles With Needed Pass Rush Boost

The veteran defensive end could be a low-cost free agent addition to bolster Philadelphia's defensive line.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 7:35pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Philadelphia Eagles lost edge rusher Jaelan Phillips to the Carolina Panthers in free agency, leaving them in need of additional pass rushing help. While the team signed veterans Arnold Ebiketie and Joe Tryon-Shoyinka, they could look to add another experienced edge defender like former Dallas Cowboys star Jadeveon Clowney on a short-term deal.

Why it matters

The Eagles' defense was a key part of their Super Bowl run in 2024, and maintaining a strong pass rush will be crucial to their hopes of returning to the championship game. Clowney could provide a veteran presence and proven production to complement the team's younger edge rushers.

The details

Clowney, 33, had 8.5 sacks, 22 quarterback pressures, 12 tackles for loss, and 10 quarterback hits for the Cowboys last season despite only starting 6 games. He proved he can still be an impact player on both passing and running downs. The Eagles could sign Clowney to a one-year, $5.7 million contract according to Spotrac's projections, which would fit their salary cap.

  • Clowney joined the Cowboys in the first month of the 2025 season.
  • In the 2025 season, Clowney led the Cowboys with 8.5 sacks.

The players

Jadeveon Clowney

A 33-year-old veteran defensive end who spent the 2025 season with the Dallas Cowboys, recording 8.5 sacks and proving he can still be an impact player.

Jaelan Phillips

The edge rusher the Eagles lost in free agency, signing a 4-year, $120 million deal with the Carolina Panthers.

Arnold Ebiketie

A veteran defensive end the Eagles signed to a one-year deal in free agency.

Joe Tryon-Shoyinka

Another veteran defensive end the Eagles signed to a one-year deal in free agency.

Nolan Smith Jr.

A young edge rusher the Eagles will be counting on to play a bigger role in their defense.

Jalyx Hunt

Another young edge rusher the Eagles will be counting on to play a bigger role in their defense.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Eagles will need to determine if Clowney is a good fit for their defensive scheme and if he can provide the pass rushing boost they need to complement their younger edge rushers.

The takeaway

Signing Jadeveon Clowney to a short-term, low-cost deal could be a savvy move for the Eagles to bolster their pass rush without breaking the bank, even if it means bringing in a former Cowboys player.