The Philadelphia Eagles could have gone in many directions this offseason, but they seem to have chosen the right paths so far.
This offseason, the Eagles lost many key defensive starters, which could set them back this year. They let Jaelan Phillips, Reed Blankenship, and Nakobe Dean sign large contracts with other teams.
One of those players leaving is looking more and more like the Eagles made the right choice in letting him walk. They are getting some vindication that should help with that argument.
Philadelphia Eagles Proven to Have Made the Right Call in the Offseason
GettyGREEN BAY, WISCONSIN – NOVEMBER 10: Executive vice president and general manager Howie Roseman of the Philadelphia Eagles looks on against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on November 10, 2025 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
Bleacher Report writer Brad Gagnon reviewed some of the biggest offseason signings at each position and regraded them. The Phillips signing to the Carolina Panthers didn’t get a flattering grade, landing a D-.
“The 27-year-old was limited to just two sacks in eight games with the Eagles as a rental in 2025, and injuries cost him the vast majority of 2023 and 2024 before the Dolphins bailed on him. Considering he’s never been a Pro Bowler in five NFL seasons, it’s pretty wild that he’s one of just 13 defensive players in the $30 million AAV club.”
Phillips signed a four-year, $120 million contract with the Panthers during the offseason. While he was great at pressuring the quarterback for the Eagles and Miami Dolphins, he finished with just 5 sacks.
The Eagles elected to trade for Minnesota Vikings edge rusher Jonathan Greenard as Phillips’ replacement. Philly gave Greenard a four-year, $100 million contract extension.
Philadelphia Eagles Clearly Made the Right Call With Jaelan Phillips
GettyPHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – NOVEMBER 16: Jaelan Phillips #50 of the Philadelphia Eagles participates in warmups prior to a game against the Detroit Lions at Lincoln Financial Field on November 16, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
Sure, the Eagles may have their concerns with Greenard after the pectoral injury he’s dealing with. Ultimately, though, Greenard is just better than what they would have had to do to keep Phillips.
Greenard had his injury concerns last year, but he had 24.5 sacks in 2023 and 2024 combined. He was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2024.
Phillips has never had more than 8.5 sacks in a season in the NFL. He’s also never made the Pro Bowl.
Plus, the Eagles saved $20 million by taking a chance on Greenard over Phillips. At least Greenard is more justified in his money than what Phillips got from the Panthers.
Carolina had to take a chance on Phillips and pay him since they are more desperate for a consistent pass rush. He will at least be able to get plenty of pressures, but the sack numbers are not going to look great.
At the end of the day, the Eagles made the right call, as they are set at edge rusher. Once Greenard is healthy again, combining him with Jalyx Hunt is going to be a dangerous duo in 2026.
Eagles Were Vindicated for Avoiding Massive $120 Million Mistake