The Philadelphia Eagles’ defense experienced massive regression during an all-in year for the 2023 NFL season. As the team begins making changes this offseason, salary-cap issues could force one Philadelphia Eagles star off the team this spring.
Even with the 2024 NFL salary cap set at @55.4 million, Philadelphia is not particularly well-positioned financially. There’s very little room to restructure contracts to push cap hits into future years, in large part thanks to Jalen Hurts’ contract.
- Philadelphia Eagles cap space 2024: $27.354 million
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Currently, the Eagles have less than $28 million of cap space in each of the next two seasons. With D’Andre Swift hitting the open market this offseason and the likes of DeVonta Smith, Landon Dickerson, Reed Blankenship and Kenneth Gainwell eligible for NFL free agency in 2025, Philadelphia’s front office mus start making some difficult decisions.
Previewing NFL offseasons for ESPN, insider Jeremy Fowler explained why the Eagles might have to decide between one of two edge rushers this offseason. While Fowler notes Philadelphia’s front office is known for its creativity, that will likely be put to the test with a decision needing to be made on Haason Reddick and Josh Sweat in 2024.
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“Pass-rusher contracts loom large with Haason Reddick and Josh Sweat both a year from free agency. Reddick could be traded if no deal is reached. Philly essentially has to pick one of those two. The Eagles are among the most creative at roster building via trades, so expect a move or two over the next three months.”
Jeremy Fowler on Philadelphia Eagles edge rushers Josh Sweat and Haason Reddick
- Haason Reddick contract: $21.377 million cap hit in 2024, NFL free agent in 2025
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Reddick, who starred at Temple University in Philadelphia, was floated in NFL trade rumors ahead of the Super Bowl when reports surfaced that he requested to be dealt. However, the Pro Bowl edge rusher later refused those reports and said he wanted to stay in Philadelphia.
Sweat, who is under contract for one more season, carries a $9.077 million cap hit in 2024. The former fourth-round pick has been a very productive pass rush for Philadelphia in the last two years, racking up 46 quarterback hits, 22 tackles for loss and 17.5 sacks in 33 games.
However, with glaring needs on both sides of the ball and very little long-term cap flexibility, Philadelphia might be forced into making a trade this offseason. Both Sweat and Reddick should generate a fair amount of trade interest, but the Eagles will be hoping whatever mid-round pick they receive in return can be a productive rookie for a team in win-now mode.
