Eagles eye more veteran trade chips as 2026 deadline approaches

The Philadelphia Eagles’ aggressive reset may not be finished yet. After losing longtime right tackle Lane Johnson to retirement and sending center Cam Jurgens to the Baltimore Ravens, the team could explore additional veteran trades before the Nov. 10 NFL deadline, according to an analysis from CBS Sports.

From recent Super Bowl champion to roster reset

Just 20 months removed from a dominant Super Bowl LIX win over the Kansas City Chiefs, the Eagles are dealing with the downside of sustained contention. Their 2025 squad still reached the postseason, but the year was marked by turbulence: new offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo lasted only one season, star receiver A.J. Brown voiced frustration and was ultimately traded to the New England Patriots, and the offense failed to match its previous peak.

The opening stretch of the 2026 season has only deepened concerns. Philadelphia was blown out by the Chicago Bears led by veteran Case Keenum, then surrendered a 10-point lead in the final minutes against the Los Angeles Rams. Within days, Johnson announced his retirement, citing mental health, and Jurgens was dealt — along with a seventh-round pick — to Baltimore in exchange for a 2027 fifth-rounder and a 2028 first-rounder.

Those moves leave the Eagles holding two first-round and two second-round picks in 2028, suggesting a stronger emphasis on long-term roster building. Against that backdrop, CBS Sports identifies several established players who could be used to further stockpile draft capital.

Goedert, Woolen headline list of possible trade pieces

Tight end Dallas Goedert is one of the most notable names mentioned. After testing free agency in the offseason, he returned to Philadelphia and scored twice in Week 1 before suffering a knee injury the following game. He has dealt with multiple injuries in recent seasons, while the Eagles spent a second-round pick on Eli Stowers, who is effectively in a redshirt role so far. Given that Goedert remains productive, the piece suggests he could return mid-to-late-round draft value for a contending team.

Cornerback Tariq Woolen is also cited as a potential chip. Signed to a one-year deal to lock down the CB2 spot opposite rookie Quinyon Mitchell, Woolen has improved the position but is still allowing 12.5 yards per completion as the primary defender, per Pro Football Focus — a figure that would be his highest since his rookie year. CBS Sports notes that his tape has been better than the raw numbers indicate, pointing to several plays where strong coverage was beaten by precise execution, including against Rams receiver Puka Nacua.

The Detroit Lions are floated as a logical suitor for Woolen after reportedly being in the mix for Joey Porter Jr. before the cornerback landed with the Dallas Cowboys. His length and man-coverage ability could appeal to a Detroit secondary still seeking stability on the outside.

Limited role for A.J. Epenesa could invite offers

On the defensive front, edge rusher A.J. Epenesa is another name to watch. Signed to be part of the rotation, he has logged only a small share of the Eagles’ defensive snaps so far. The former first-round pick produced 19 sacks from 2022 through 2024 with the Buffalo Bills and posted a 13.6% pressure rate in 2025.

Epenesa drew a healthy market in free agency, initially agreeing to a one-year deal with the Cleveland Browns before the team walked away following his physical. Given his limited role in Philadelphia, CBS Sports suggests the Eagles could be open to moving him even for a modest return, such as a late-round pick swap, knowing that contenders often look for pass-rush depth late in the year. The Atlanta Falcons, whose defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich has maximized several veteran linemen, are mentioned as a potential fit.

To date, these possibilities remain speculative rather than concrete trade talks. Still, with more than a month remaining before the deadline and Philadelphia already reshaping its core, it would not be surprising if more familiar faces are discussed in trade conversations.