Philadelphia Eagles’ roster comparison: 2023 vs. 2024 defense

Last summer, the Eagles entered the 2023 NFL season fresh off a Super Bowl loss while maintaining one of the league’s most dominant defensive units. The Birds lost Jonathan Gannon, who accepted the Cardinals’ coaching job. Sean Desai was inserted as …

Last summer, the Eagles entered the 2023 NFL season fresh off a Super Bowl loss while maintaining one of the league’s most dominant defensive units. The Birds lost Jonathan Gannon, who accepted the Cardinals’ coaching job. Sean Desai was inserted as defensive coordinator, and the team jumped out to a 10-1 start before the wheels fell off.

Philadelphia lost six of its final seven games, including a 32-9 blowout loss to the Buccaneers in the wild-card round. Desai was fired as DC and replaced by Vic Fangio, the architect of the scheme. Bryce Huff was signed in free agency, while Haason Reddick was traded away.

With the Eagles just five days away from a much-hyped season-opening matchup against the Packers from Sao Paulo, Brazil, we’re comparing last year’s defensive unit to the 2024 version.

2023: Jalen Carter, Fletcher Cox, Jordan Davis, Moro Ojomo, Kentavius Street, Marlon Tuipulotu, Milton Williams

2024: Jalen Carter, Jordan Davis, Milton Williams, Moro Ojomo, Byron Young, Thomas Booker

Fletcher Cox has retired, while Byron Jones replaces the departed Marlon Tuipulotu. Thomas Booker and Moro Ojomo offer pass-rush potential.

2023: Derek Barnett, Brandon Graham, Josh Sweat, Patrick Johnson, Haason Reddick, Nolan Smith

2024: Brandon Graham, Josh Sweat, Patrick Johnson, Nolan Smith, Bryce Huff, Jalyx Hunt

Bryce Huff replaces the departed Haason Reddick. Huff is younger than Reddick, and he’s an emerging pass rusher. Jalyx Hunt is an athletic marvel off the edge. Nolan Smith’s progression will be the most scrutinized.

2023: Zach Cunningham, Nakobe Dean, Christian Elliss

2024: Zack Baun, Nakobe Dean, Jeremiah Trotter Jr., Ben VanSumeren, Devin White, Oren Burks

Thanks to another standout training camp, Ben VanSumeren made the Eagles’ 53-man roster, outplaying Oren Burks and others. Devin White offers a Pro Bowl-caliber linebacker.

2023: James Bradberry, Mario Goodrich, Josh Jobe, Avonte Maddox, Eli Ricks. Kelee Ringo, Darius Slay

2024: Cooper DeJean, Quinyon Mitchell, Eli Ricks, Kelee Ringo, Isaiah Rodgers, Darius Slay

After a disappointing finish to 2023, Howie Roseman selected cornerbacks with the first two picks in the 2024 NFL draft. Avonte Maddox is now a safety, along with James Bradberry, while Josh Jobe is with the Seahawks practice squad.

2023: Reed Blankenship, Sydney Brown, Terrell Edmunds, Justin Evans

2024: Reed Blankenship, James Bradberry, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, Avonte Maddox, Tristin McCollum

Sydney Brown is on the PUP list and will be a factor in 2024. Reed Blankenship has developed into a solid NFL safety, while C.J. Gardner-Johnson returns the swagger to the Eagles lineup. Tristin McCollum has developed into a solid rotational piece.

Every move the Eagles made during 53-man roster cuts

We’re tracking every move the Philadelphia Eagles made to trim down from 90 players to an official 53-man roster

Philadelphia has a loaded and dynamic roster ripe with dual-threat players on both sides of the football and two of the top coordinators in the game. After five weeks of intense Training Camp and three preseason games, the Birds officially trimmed their roster to 53 players on Tuesday, unveiling the 2024 Eagles to the world and fans alike.

On Monday, the Eagles announced their first wave of roster cuts, releasing four veteran players who are not subject to the waiver wire and can immediately sign with other teams.

With the roster taking shape, here are the moves Philadelphia made to get down to 53 players.

Monday

Ahead of Tuesday’s deadline, the franchise announced four moves, releasing Will Grier, Parry Nickerson, Julian Okwara, and Max Scharping.

Tuesday

RELEASED
(*These players are veterans who are not subject to waivers and can sign immediately with another team.)

LB Oren Burks
WR Parris Campbell
OL Nick Gates
G/C Matt Hennessy
WR John Ross
T/G Brett Toth

WAIVED

T/G Gottlieb Ayedze
T Anim Dankwah
RB Tyrion Davis-Price
TE Kevin Foelsch
DT Gabe Hall
WR Jacob Harris (Injured)
WR Griffin Hebert
DE Tarron Jackson
TE E.J. Jenkins
CB Josh Jobe
OLB Terrell Lewis
C Dylan McMahon
CB Zech McPhearson
RB Kendall Milton
DT P.J. Mustipher
WR Joseph Ngata (Injured)
RB Lew Nichols
G/C Jason Poe
TE Armani Rogers
S Andre Sam
LB Brandon Smith
CB Shon Stephens
S Caden Sterns (Non-Football Injury)
T Laekin Vakalahi
WR Austin Watkins

PLACED ON INJURED RESERVE and DESIGNATED FOR RETURN

TE Albert Okwuegbunam
WR Ainias Smith

PLACED ON THE RESERVE/PHYSICALLY UNABLE TO PERFORM LIST

S Sydney Brown

Eagles vs. Vikings: Top photos from preseason finale at Lincoln Financial Field

We’re looking at the top photos from the Philadelphia Eagles preseason finale against the Minnesota Vikings at Lincoln Financial Field

The Eagles finished the preseason 2-1. They now aim to trim the roster to 53 players and prepare for a gigantic season-opening matchup against the Green Bay Packers in Brazil. Vikings quarterback Jaren Hall was 17-25 passing for 189 yards and two touchdowns on the afternoon, while Tanner McKee was 13-21 passing for 115 yards and one interception. Lucky Jackson led Minnesota with four catches for 53 yards, while Griffin Hebert led Philadelphia with three for 48 yards in the afternoon. On defense, Tristin McCollum made a late push for a roster spot, recording nine tackles and one pass defended on the afternoon. Oren Burks made his own statement, logging seven tackles, one sack, one pass defended, one tackle for loss, and one QB hit. With the team off until Monday, here’s an instant analysis of the preseason finale. ***

WATCH: Eagles edge rusher Nolan Smith records his second sack of the preseason

Nolan Smith records his second sack of the Eagles preseason

Playing behind Josh Sweat, Haason Reddick, Brandon Graham, and Derek Barnett, Smith played 16% of the defensive snaps (188).

He notched his first career sack against the Miami Dolphins in Week 7.

It’s only the preseason,but with Haason Reddick and Derek Barnett gone, Smith is leading the Eagles pass rusher during the preseason. The Eagles second-year outside linebacker, and former Georgia All-American just notched his second sack of the preseason.

As a rookie, Smith didn’t play more than eight defensive snaps in a game until Week 12, and his season high in that category was 21 snaps, coming in the final week of the regular season, when the team rested several starters. The 30th overall pick has carved out a larger role in camp this summer, and he’s going to flourish.

Updated Eagles’ 53-man roster projection ahead of preseason matchup vs. Patriots

Philadelphia is back at the NovaCare Complex for Week 3 of training camp and is starting to prepare for a joint practice and the second preseason matchup of the summer against New England. The Patriots hosted the Eagles for a joint practice session …

Philadelphia is back at the NovaCare Complex for Week 3 of training camp and is starting to prepare for a joint practice and the second preseason matchup of the summer against New England.

The Patriots hosted the Eagles for a joint practice session on Tuesday, August 13, before their preseason game on Thursday, August 15. Practice will begin at 10:30 AM, and gates will open to fans at 9:30 AM.

Philadelphia has increased the intensity of practice season after the 2023 collapse, and Thursday night’s matchup offers another chance to clarify several high-profile roster battles. Players on the bubble will look to create separation, and we will be watching to see which starters, if any, will play in the first quarter after an intense Tuesday session.

With the Eagles having defeated the Ravens and made three roster moves since last week, we’re unveiling the fourth 53-man roster prediction ahead of cutdown day and the regular season opener.

Hurts will look to reduce the turnovers under first-year OC Kellen Moore.

After being traded to the Eagles, the former Steelers first-round pick has been solid in training camp, but he’ll have to defeat Tanner McKee to maintain the backup job.

McKee would have to fall off the cliff to lose a roster spot to Will Grier, and he could rise up to the backup quarterback spot.

The former Penn State star has yet to play in the preseason.

Gainwell will enter Year 4 looking to lock down the backup running back spot.

The rookie is a jack of all trades and made his mark during his debut against the Ravens.

Smith is firmly entrenched as a ‘Batman’ after signing his 3-year, $75 million contract extension.

A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, and Johnny Wilson should be locked to make the final roster. Covey makes the roster over John Ross, and he’s still the best punt returner on the roster.

You can’t teach size, and Wilson makes the cut as the Eagles work to utilize his unique skill set.

Goedert will look to record his first 1,000-yard season.

Calcaterra is a capable pass catcher, and provides special teams depth.

Okwuegbunam Jr. had no role under former offensive coordinator Brian Johnson, and he’s done nothing to separate himself, opening things up for E.J. Jenkins as the third tight end. Armani Rogers is another player to watch.

Mailata signed a 3-year, $66 million contract extension and is one of the best left tackles in the NFL.

Dickerson signed a new 4-year, $98 million deal and is the best left guard and highest paid in the NFL.

Entering his third season, Jurgens will face enormous pressure after Jason Kelce announces his retirement.

Steen is under pressure, and it looks like Mekhi Becton will unseat him.

The All-Pro will play his first season without Jason Kelce and be called upon to anchor a retooled offensive line.

The big ticket offers potential, and he could earn the starting right guard spot.

Johnson is Mailata’s primary backup and can play both offensive tackle positions.

Matt Hennessy has done nothing to stand out over the first three weeks.

The rookie offensive guard will compete with Tyler Steen for the right guard spot and bring toughness to the roster.

The rookie from North Carolina State has outplayed Matt Hennessy.

Huff was essentially swapped for Haason Reddick, and he’ll be counted on to produce more than a situational ten sacks.

Sweat will play in the final year of his deal, and he’ll look to secure double-digit sacks.

Smith will see an uptick in snaps and should carve out a rotational pass-rusher role.

Graham will play his final season in Philadelphia before retiring.

The rookie linebacker will make the roster and will land a role as a situational pass rusher.

The pass rusher has always been stout on special teams, and his strip-sack in the preseason opener did not sway opinion.

The runner-up for the NFL’s Defensive Rookie of the Year, Carter will see his snaps and accountability increase as Fletcher Cox retires.

Like Jalen Carter, the expectations will rise for the 3rd year defensive tackle.

Williams is entering the final year of his deal and could have a breakout season at defensive tackle.

The 2023 seventh-round pick will look to carve out a role alongside a stout defensive line.

Dean enters a critical third year and competes with multiple players, including rookie Jeremiah Trotter Jr.

The former Buccaneers linebacker could transform the Eagles’ defense if he can regain his 2020-2021 form.

Baun is already a favorite of DC Vic Fangio and could carve out a role in multiple positions.

Trotter Jr. will enter his rookie system with the perfect support system, and he flashed during the preseason opener.

The second-year linebacker has been consistent this summer. He’s a special teams standout who makes the roster ahead of Oren Burks.

Slay returns as the Eagles top cornerback, but at 33, he could be set for his final chance at winning a Super Bowl.

The rookie has been as good as advertised and should start at cornerback opposite Darius Slay.

The rookie from Iowa is listed as a cornerback and is dealing with a hamstring injury, but he’ll see snaps at every position. He could allow Philadelphia to carry one less safety and move on from Avonte Maddox.

Rodgers has returned to the gridiron after serving a one-year suspension and will compete for a role as cornerback and as the primary kick return specialist.

Ringo appears to be the more impactful player than Eli Ricks and will land a roster spot after impressive rookie development. He’ll battle Quinyon Mitchell for the starting cornerback spot opposite Darius Slay.

Special teams play is essential, and Jobe is one of the best gunners in the NFL.

Blankenship signed a two-year extension, and he’s developed into one of the top young safeties In the NFL.

Gardner-Johnson returns to Philadelphia after spending one season in Detroit, and he’ll bring swagger and big-play potential to Vic Fangio’s secondary.

Brown will start the season on the PUP list while rehabbing his torn ACL.

After not having Bradberry on our initial 53-man roster predictions, the Eagles’ newest safety could make the roster if he’s not traded in late summer. Sydney Brown starting camp on the PUP list could bode well for Bradberry’s future in Philadelphia.

The veteran cornerback can play in the slot and he can play safety, ensuring his role on the roster.

The All-Pro signed a four-year contract extension.

Top photos from the Eagles 16-13 win over Ravens in preseason opener

We’re looking at the top 100 photos from the Philadelphia Eagles 16-13 win over the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium on Friday night

The Eagles returned to live game action for the first time since their embarrassing 32-9 defeat to the Buccaneers in the NFC wild-card game.

Philadelphia traveled to Baltimore to face the Ravens in a preview of their Week 13 matchup, which looms later in the regular season. Both teams held out the majority of the starters, allowing key rookies and veterans on the bubble to shine and create separation in roster battles.

Eagles All-Pro kicker Jake Elliott made a 49-yard field goal with no time remaining to give Philadelphia a 16-13 victory on Friday night. Elliott missed an extra point off the left upright in the first quarter, and his 50-yard kick hit the right upright with 16 seconds remaining in the game.

With Philadelphia set to start preparation for the Patriots on Thursday night, here are the top 100 photos from the big win.

***

Takeaways and observations from first half of Eagles’ preseason opener vs. the Ravens

The NFL is back, and Philadelphia officially started its march toward another postseason berth with a much anticipated preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens. Kenny Pickett was 13-21 for 90 yards and one touchdown, and the Eagles are tied 6-6 …

The NFL is back, and Philadelphia officially started its march toward another postseason berth with a much anticipated preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens. Kenny Pickett was 13-21 for 90 yards and one touchdown, and the Eagles are tied 6-6 with the Ravens to end the first half at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore.

Both teams held out key starters, but Philadelphia defensive coordinator Vic Fangio ensured key players saw snaps in the first half. Most of the offensive and defensive starters sat out for the Ravens, allowing second-year linebacker Trenton Simpson to shine.

On offense, Josh Johnson was 4-12 passing for 60 yards, while Owen Wright led the Baltimore rushing attack with seven carries for 33 yards.

With the second half set to begin, here are takeaways and observations from the first half in Baltimore.

Trotter is instinctual and has the benefit of sharing dinner and breakfast with one of the greatest linebackers in Eagles franchise history.

Nakobe Dean’s first defensive snaps came with 5:34 remaining in the second quarter. Philadelphia’s starters at linebacker were Zack Baun and Devin White. Dean had one tackle in the first half and one pass defended.

Philadelphia gave us a preview of the future with Quinyon Mitchell and Kelee Ringo getting snaps together. Isaiah Rodgers got snaps on the outside with RIngo, while Mitchell got the initial snaps in the slot. The Eagles surrendered 62 yards passing in the first half.

Wilson got the start for Philadelphia and had one catch for seven yards on two targets and a crucial block on the Will Shipley touchdown.

Mekhi Becton gets the start at right guard, while the rest of the Eagles starting offensive line didn’t dress.

Pickett was 13-21 for 90 yards and one touchdown in the first half, and solidified his status as the backup.

The Eagles’ top offensive starters, including Jalen Hurts, A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, Lane Johnson, and Jordan Mailata, were not uniform.

Takeaways and observations from the Eagles’ open practice at Lincoln Financial Field

The Eagles took to the field for an intense but efficient open practice session at Lincoln Financial Field in front of a raucous crowd of about 50,000 screaming fans. The practice lasted over two hours and featured some big-time throws from star …

The Eagles took to the field for an intense but efficient open practice session at Lincoln Financial Field in front of a raucous crowd of about 50,000 screaming fans. The practice lasted over two hours and featured some big-time throws from star quarterback Jalen Hurts.

Saquon Barkley made his home debut and was cheered throughout the night, while Brandon Graham soaked in the emotions of his final open practice at Lincoln Financial Field.

With the team off on Friday, here are takeaways and observations.

The Eagles had five players unavailable for Thursday night’s open practice, including Landon Dickerson, who is battling a toe injury.

Lane Johnson wore the No. 69 jersey with Dickerson injured, ditching his No. 65 for one night.

Goedert finished the night with three touchdowns and again established himself as a key weapon in this explosive offense.

Hurts has looked sharp all training camp, and Thursday night was no different. He continued his streak of no turnovers.

The rookie out of FSU is the tallest wide receiver in the NFL, and the Eagles will carve out a role for the physical pass catcher.

The open practice always draws a huge crowd, and Thursday night was no different.

The Eagles traded for Kenny Pickett, but they drafted Tanner McKee last spring, and they like his talents.

Saquon Barkley will be around for at least the next two to three years, but Will Shipley is the future at the running back position.

Landon Dickerson sat out Thursday’s open practice, paving the way for Mekhi Becton to get much-needed snaps at the guard position.

Highlights from Eagles’ open practice at Lincoln Financial Field

The drive for a return to the Super Bowl has officially started in Philadelphia, as over 50,000+ fans packed Lincoln Financial Field for the Eagles’ one open practice of the summer. Saquon Barkley, Bruce Huff, Quinyon Mitchell, and many others have …

The drive for a return to the Super Bowl has officially started in Philadelphia, as over 50,000+ fans packed Lincoln Financial Field for the Eagles’ one open practice of the summer.

Saquon Barkley, Bruce Huff, Quinyon Mitchell, and many others have made their debut, while Brandon Graham took part in his final open practice as a player after he announced he’d retire at season’s end.

Philadelphia hit the field for an intense but efficient session, and here are highlights from that practice, courtesy of media and Eagles content creators.

Vic Fangio on Eagles’ biggest position battles: CB, LB, and maybe edge rusher

Vic Fangio says the Philadelphia Eagles biggest position battles are at cornerback, inside linebacker and edge rusher

The Eagles have a loaded roster, but the biggest uncertainties and position battles will likely occur on the defensive side of the ball.

On Thursday, new defensive coordinator Vic Fangio addressed the media and was asked about the biggest and most intense position battles. It was no surprise that the cornerback spot opposite Darius Slay, the inside linebacker spot, and the edge rusher would see the most competition.

Quinyon Mitchell, Isaiah Rodgers, and Kelee Ringo will battle for the cornerback spot opposite Darius Slay. Devin White should be a Day 1 starter at the inside linebacker spot, leaving Zack Baun, Nakobe Dean, Oren Burks, and Jeremiah Trotter Jr. to battle for the weak-side linebacker spot.

At the edge rusher spot, Bryce Huff is a Day 1 starter, but Josh Sweat, Brandon Graham, Nolan Smith, and others could all compete for that role.

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