The Philadelphia Eagles will have a vastly different-looking defense going into 2025.
The Birds have said goodbye to defensive end Josh Sweat, defensive tackle Milton Williams, cornerback Darius Slay, cornerback Isaiah Rodgers, linebacker Oren Burks, and safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson from their top-ranked defense.
The Eagles couldn’t afford to retain Sweat and Williams. On top of that, they also have contract extensions looming for All-Pro defensive tackle Jalen Carter and edge rusher Nolan Smith. That’s a major reason why Gardner-Johnson was traded to the Houston Texans just one year after his return to Philadelphia.
The Eagles did manage to re-sign All-Pro linebacker Zack Baun to a three-year, $51 million deal following his breakout season and are counting on young players to step up amid the losses. General manager Howie Roseman will also look to replenish through the draft.
Meanwhile, the front office has been acquiring depth pieces on bargain-like deals. That strategy continued as they have signed a former first-round draft pick who spent the last four seasons with the New York Giants.
Philadelphia Eagles ink cornerback to one-year deal
To bolster their secondary depth, the Eagles have signed cornerback Adoree’ Jackson to a one-year deal, according to The Philadelphia Inquirer’s Jeff McLane. Jackson was the 18th overall pick by the Tennessee Titans in the 2017 NFL Draft.
#Eagles have agreed to terms with former Giants/Titans CB Adoree Jackson on a one-year contract, an NFL source said.
— Jeff McLane (@Jeff_McLane) March 13, 2025
Depth pieces continued to be added, although Jackson’s experience (82 career starts) suggests he could compete for outside CB spot with Kelee Ringo, et al.…
This signing follows similar one-year contracts for linebacker Joshua Uche, running back A.J. Dillon, and tight end Harrison Bryant as part of Roseman’s budget-conscious approach this offseason.
Jackson will help fill the void left by Slay after his release and subsequent signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers. McLane notes that Jackson could compete with Kelee Ringo for the outside cornerback spot.
Jackson also adds veteran presence to a young secondary featuring Defensive Rookie of the Year finalists in corners Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. Over eight seasons with the Titans and Giants, he has appeared in 97 games, recording 404 total tackles, 61 pass breakups, six forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries, and four interceptions. He’s also been used as a kick and punt returner, most recently in 2022 with the Giants.
