And the Philadelphia Eagles are just the latest team making big moves to trade up their defense as the NFL Trade Deadline approaches. They have made three major trades to reinforce their roster. General Manager Howie Roseman orchestrated these trades with a clear vision to bolster the team’s defensive capabilities, which have faced challenges this season.
The Eagles were the most aggressive team on draft day as they traded up with the Dolphins to select edge rusher Jaelen Phillips. They swapped a 2026 third-round pick to finalize the deal. Phillips, who leads the Eagles in sacks this year (three), brings even more pressure to opposing quarterbacks. His 29 pressures are second on the team, illustrating how he’s able to blow plays up at a high level.
Additionally, the Eagles secured cornerback Jaire Alexander from the Baltimore Ravens for a sixth-round pick in 2026, along with a seventh-round pick in 2027. It’s Orlov’s time with the team that has pushed Alexander to the periphery this season. He’s been a healthy scratch in five games and has played only 61 total snaps. His experience and possibility for versatility is an exciting asset the Eagles can get their hands on to complement their defensive lineup.
The Eagles made a trade with the New York Jets. Along with a 2027 seventh rounder, they got defensive back Michael Carter II. In exchange, they sent wide receiver John Metchie III and a sixth-round pick in 2027 to New York. Carter II has mostly played the slot. The addition of Bradberry allows defensive coordinator Vic Fangio to get creative in bolstering the Eagles’ currently mediocre pass defense that ranks 17th in opponent QBR at 56.6 and 14th in passing yards allowed.
These acquisitions add flexibility as well as talent. If Alexander is moved outside, that could allow rookie Cooper DeJean to play slot more long-term. This decision is a clear indication of Fangio’s desire to have DeJean work primarily out of the slot. It enables the Eagles to maximize their defensive best eleven.
The Eagles’ moves come after Roseman hinted at upcoming changes during an interview in late August, stating, “We’re not done here.” This assertion has proven prophetic as he leveraged stockpiled draft picks to build a championship-caliber roster while addressing immediate needs through these trades.
Christian Parker is now the Eagles’ passing game coordinator and DBs coach. Because of his prior experience working with Alexander in Green Bay from 2019-2020, he provides valuable perspective and insight to the team’s plan.
The Eagles are adding some much-needed depth and talent on defense, but specifically in the secondary. They’re managed by a surprising core group of standout players, such as Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley, A.J. Brown, DeVonta Smith, Jalen Carter, Quinyon Mitchell, and Cooper DeJean. The latest trades signal Roseman’s desire to put together a downright scary roster that could win the whole thing.
Vic Fangio commented on the complexities of trade impacts within the league, saying, “I think if you look at some of those trades over the years, they really haven’t had the effect some teams were hoping for.” This statement underscores the uncertainty that often accompanies player transactions and highlights the Eagles’ calculated approach to enhancing their performance.
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