The situation also means the Eagles no longer field the starting safeties from their Super Bowl run two years ago, with C.J. Gardner-Johnson signing with the Buffalo Bills and Reed Blankenship moving on to the Houston Texans.
Analysts have speculated that these factors could lead to a significant safety addition in the near term, with Arizona Cardinals veteran Budda Baker emerging as a top target. Baker has long been among the league’s premier safeties and has earned substantial earnings over his career. He was drafted in the second round by the Cardinals in 2017 and has earned multiple All-Pro honors. Baker signed a three-year, $54 million extension with Arizona before the 2024 season, a deal that includes $16.1 million for 2026 and $17.8 million for 2027.
The chatter around the safety position comes as the Eagles are receiving widespread attention for their potential at cornerback, with a trio that includes standout players in Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean, along with a notable offseason addition. However, the safety group remains a focal point, particularly because it must complement a strong cornerback unit.
While Mukuba’s pre-injury play gives reason for cautious optimism, questions linger about whether Epps or Michael Carter II can shoulder the starting responsibilities consistently. If the Eagles remain hesitant to rely on the same safety rotation as last season, a midseason or early-season upgrade could be considered as a strategic move to shore up one of the last remaining weak spots on a high-caliber defense.
In a year where the defense could be among the league’s best, the decision-makers will be closely watching how the safety position develops, balancing internal development with potential external upgrades. The goal remains clear: maintain a top-tier defense by ensuring the safety unit is capable of providing playmaking, consistency, and versatile coverage to support the standout corners and the rest of the defense.
