The Philadelphia Eagles possess a defense that is not only strong right now but also has the potential to remain effective in the future, likely requiring only minimal adjustments to sustain its success.
One potential challenge for the Eagles, however, is the impending loss of edge rusher Josh Sweat. Sweat, who is having one of the best seasons of his career with 7.0 sacks, is expected to command a significant salary in free agency, which may push him out of the Eagles’ financial reach. As the team continues its 10-2 season, riding an 8-game winning streak into a Week 14 matchup with the Carolina Panthers, Sweat’s performance has been a key factor.
Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report has identified Sweat as one of the top free agents in 2025. The 27-year-old is in the final year of a 3-year, $40 million contract extension signed in 2021, which was restructured into a 1-year, $10 million deal for 2024. Despite a slight dip in sack production compared to his 2022 career-high of 11 sacks, Sweat remains a highly effective player. In 2023, he tallied 6.5 sacks and 37 quarterback pressures, highlighting his consistent impact. His age and continued performance will likely make him a sought-after free agent.
Sweat has spent his entire career in Philadelphia after being drafted by the Eagles in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft. He didn’t become a full-time starter until 2021, when he earned a Pro Bowl nod with 7.5 sacks. His best season came in 2022, when he helped lead the Eagles to Super Bowl LVII with 11 sacks. Sweat has also been remarkably durable, missing just four games in the last six seasons, with his only significant injury occurring as a rookie in 2018.
Given the possibility of Sweat’s departure, it seems likely that the Eagles will target an edge rusher in the 2025 NFL Draft. With limited salary cap space—just $34.9 million available in 2025—and edge rushers commanding top salaries, it would be difficult for the team to retain Sweat if he demands $24.5 million or more, the average salary for the top 20 highest-paid edge rushers in 2024.
PFF’s latest 2025 mock draft predicts the Eagles will select an edge rusher in the first round, with Georgia’s Mykel Williams pegged as the 29th overall pick. Williams is viewed as a fitting replacement for Sweat, with his impressive athleticism and long arms. While he hasn’t fully developed his pass-rush abilities yet, he is already considered a strong run defender, which aligns with the Eagles’ defensive line philosophy. Adding another Georgia player to the defense could be a strategic move as they look to rebuild their edge-rushing group, especially with veteran Brandon Graham likely retiring soon.
