Jaelan Phillips has been the most conspicuous candidate for a return. If Philadelphia keeps him, he’s projected to sign a three-year, $51.7 million deal with $43.5 million guaranteed. Should the Eagles prefer short-term continuity, Phillips could ink a two- to three-year pact at roughly his $17.3 million annual market value, providing stability at a position where the front office has broader long-term questions. The franchise also would receive a compensatory pick if he departs, offsetting the 2026 third-round pick they previously traded to acquire him.
Nakobe Dean has blossomed into a run-stopping force for Vic Fangio’s defense, complicating any plan to replace him. Spotrac projects Dean to land around $7.9 million over four years, but a bold move by the player could push for a higher average value. The Eagles could opt for a one-year deal near market value to retain him and revisit long-term security next offseason, especially with young linebackers and a growing core around him.
Marcus Epps represents the value option among the starting defenders slated for free agency. Re-signing Epps could be a smart, cost-conscious move given his versatility and the team’s depth concerns at safety. The projection for Epps is a one-year, $1.6 million contract with $0 guaranteed, which would allow Philadelphia to preserve flexibility while evaluating the скорing safety group, including the developing role of Andrew Mukuba when ready.
Beyond these three, the Eagles must balance re-signing core players with the need to protect offense and maintain depth. Howie Roseman has historically rewarded homegrown talent to avoid costly external bidding, especially as their young defenders—Jordan Davis, Jalen Carter, Cooper DeJean, and Quinyon Mitchell—approach monster paydays. With potential 2026 considerations at tight end and wide receiver, Philadelphia may look to add pieces from the outside to complement a core still built around strong internal development.
Overall, Philadelphia’s path will hinge on prioritizing these re-signings while weighing cap realities and the long-term trajectory of their defensive unit. The goal is to preserve a championship-contending core without overcommitting where the roster can still grow through the draft and value-free agency. The three players highlighted—Phillips, Dean, and Epps—represent immediate, impactful bets that align with the Eagles’ strategy of balancing homegrown talent with opportunistic additions.
