The Philadelphia Eagles have officially wrapped up free agency and the 2026 NFL Draft, and now it's time to dig into how the defense is shaping up. After breaking down the offense earlier, we're turning our attention to the defensive side of the ball. Next up will be special teams, followed by our first 53-man roster projection of the season. For context, it's always fun to compare this year's roster to the same point last season.

Let's start with the edge rushers. Jonathan Greenard was arguably the Eagles' best offseason addition. Sure, he only posted three sacks last year, but don't let that fool you. In 2024, he generated the second-most pressures among all edge rushers—trailing only Myles Garrett—and ranked seventh in pressure rate last season. This guy is a disruptor. Jalyx Hunt made a significant leap from Year 1 to Year 2, and it wouldn't be surprising to see him take another big step forward in Year 3. Meanwhile, Nolan Smith has a lot to prove after a disappointing 2025 campaign that was likely hampered by injuries. The 2023 first-round pick was dominant during the 2024 season, so the question is whether he can recapture that form. Arnold Ebiketie looks like a quality rotational piece, and J.J. Jansen (JTS) could either crack the roster or serve as a valuable veteran on the practice squad. As for the rest, K.J. Henry (KJN) is a productive college edge rusher who faces an uphill battle to stick in the NFL—similar to Antwaun Powell-Ryland Jr. last year. Don't confuse Ramirez with the baseball star; he's a long shot. And Weru, who has never played football before, will likely be a practice squad project at best. Finally, Brandon Graham (BLG) is technically still on the roster until early June when his contract expires. He played well last year and has expressed interest in playing in 2026. Given his ability to contribute in a limited role at both edge and defensive tackle, the Eagles would be wise to bring him back.

Moving to the interior defensive line, the Eagles desperately need the 2024 version of Jalen Carter to show up in 2026. The hope is that he'll be much healthier than he was in 2025. Jordan Davis got paid this offseason, and it will be fascinating to see how he follows up his breakout season. For Moro Ojomo, it's a contract year—and he'll be looking to make the most of it.