Preview of the Philadelphia Eagles’ 2025 NFL offseason: With a solid core in place, they’ll always be a contender

The Eagles’ Strategic Approach

Over the years, the Eagles have consistently demonstrated an ability to build a well-rounded team, thanks to a mix of draft success, smart free-agent acquisitions, and savvy trades. This has been spearheaded by the team’s general manager, Howie Roseman, who is widely regarded as one of the most adept executives in the NFL. Roseman has earned a reputation for making bold moves that strengthen the Eagles’ roster without compromising the team’s future.

For example, in recent seasons, the Eagles have excelled in the draft, identifying key talents that have helped propel them to the top of the league. The 2025 offseason will be no different, with the Eagles holding several crucial draft picks. These selections, along with their cap space, allow them to address specific areas of need while remaining competitive.

The team’s strategy revolves around building depth at every position. By prioritizing building through the draft and being patient in free agency, the Eagles have avoided overextending themselves financially. This approach has been successful in creating a sustainable long-term plan that can withstand the ebbs and flows of the NFL season.

The Role of Jalen Hurts

At the heart of the Eagles’ offense is quarterback Jalen Hurts, whose continued development is a key to their success in 2025 and beyond. Hurts’ evolution from a raw, dual-threat quarterback to one of the NFL’s most effective passers has been impressive. In the 2025 Super Bowl, Hurts showcased his growth as a pocket passer while still being the dynamic runner that makes him such a dangerous player.

Hurts’ leadership and his ability to perform under pressure have been game-changing for the Eagles. If Hurts can maintain this level of play, it gives the team a significant advantage, as he is now one of the top quarterbacks in the NFL. Hurts’ versatility, combined with his composure, will allow the Eagles to remain contenders year after year, even as other teams adjust to their strategies.

With Hurts locked in for the long term after his contract extension, the Eagles’ offense can continue to flourish with him at the helm. The addition of weapons like wide receiver A.J. Brown and the reliable running back committee, including the powerhouse Saquon Barkley, has given the Eagles a well-rounded offense capable of keeping defenses on their toes.

Defensive Dominance

The Eagles’ defense, led by coordinator Jonathan Gannon, has been one of the most formidable in the league. The front seven, anchored by standout players such as defensive tackle Jalen Carter and edge rusher Josh Sweat, has made a habit of putting immense pressure on opposing quarterbacks. In the 2025 Super Bowl, this defensive line was instrumental in neutralizing the Chiefs’ high-powered offense, creating several key stops at crucial moments.

The Eagles’ secondary, while solid, still has room for improvement. With the potential loss of cornerback James Bradberry, the Eagles might look to add depth at cornerback or safety in the draft or free agency. Another area that could use reinforcement is linebacker, where the Eagles have a mix of solid but unspectacular players. With linebacker Zack Baun potentially hitting the free-agent market, the Eagles could opt to upgrade this position, either through the draft or by signing a proven veteran.

One key player to watch in 2025 is safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson, who has been a standout playmaker for the defense. His ability to make clutch interceptions and break up key passes adds an extra layer of dynamism to the secondary. If the Eagles can keep their defense healthy and add more talent, they could remain one of the most feared units in the NFL.

Salary Cap Flexibility and Free Agency Plans

Looking ahead to 2025, the Eagles’ salary cap situation gives them the flexibility to make impactful moves. While they have a projected cap space of $13.8 million, the team has historically shown an ability to create more room if necessary. By restructuring contracts or moving on from aging or underperforming players, Roseman can clear additional cap space to make moves in free agency. The team’s ability to maneuver through salary cap constraints has been a hallmark of their success in recent seasons.

The free-agent market could offer some opportunities to plug any remaining holes. While the team will likely prioritize retaining key players like Josh Sweat and potentially Mekhi Becton, they could also explore new options to add depth in areas such as the secondary or offensive line. With a Super Bowl-winning core already in place, the Eagles may only need a few well-timed additions to continue their championship run.

For instance, if they part ways with some of their higher-priced veterans or players who are expected to command large contracts, this could free up enough space to pursue a high-profile cornerback, linebacker, or offensive lineman who could make an immediate impact. Additionally, the draft will be key to supplementing the roster with cheap, high-potential talent that can contribute early in their careers.

The Impact of the Draft

As mentioned earlier, the Eagles have several high draft picks in the 2025 NFL Draft. These picks will be pivotal in ensuring that the Eagles remain a contender in the future. While the team is set in many areas, adding more talent to positions like linebacker, cornerback, and defensive line could give them an even greater advantage.

One area where the Eagles may look to draft is offensive line. While their current offensive line is solid, it’s important to build for the future, especially with aging veterans like Lane Johnson. Selecting a promising offensive tackle in the first or second round could ensure the Eagles’ offensive line remains one of the NFL’s best for years to come.

Another position that could use attention is cornerback. With the potential departure of Bradberry and the team’s overall need for depth in the secondary, selecting a high-ceiling cornerback could be a priority in the draft. The Eagles’ ability to develop young players, especially in their secondary, could allow them to keep their defense elite for the long term.

Staying Competitive

The NFC East is one of the most competitive divisions in the NFL, and the Eagles’ success in 2025 will depend on how they perform against division rivals like the Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, and Washington Commanders. The Cowboys, in particular, have posed a significant challenge to the Eagles in recent years, and staying ahead of them in the standings will be crucial to maintaining home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.

By continuing to build through the draft and making smart moves in free agency, the Eagles can ensure that they stay at the top of their division. This will not only secure a playoff spot each year but also put them in a prime position to contend for championships year after year.

The Philadelphia Eagles’ 2025 offseason will be crucial for maintaining their status as Super Bowl contenders. While they have a solid core of players, including Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley, and standout defenders like Jalen Carter and Josh Sweat, there are still areas where the team could improve. Whether through strategic free-agent acquisitions, the smart use of draft picks, or financial maneuvers to free up cap space, the Eagles have the resources to continue their dominance in the NFL.

With Howie Roseman at the helm, the Eagles’ future looks bright. They will need to make tough decisions regarding key free agents and ensure their roster remains deep and balanced. However, with the right moves, the Eagles could very well be positioned for another deep playoff run, if not another Super Bowl victory, in the 2025 season. Their combination of young talent, veteran leadership, and a smart front office gives them the foundation to be contenders for years to come.