The NFL announced that the 2026 free agent negotiation window opens on March 9
Nick Sirianni’s team is loaded with playmakers and versatility. Philadelphia (7-2) added 10 players during the NFL draft and still has a huge Super Bowl window thanks to an MVP candidate at quarterback and elite talent in several critical positions.
Regardless of the outcome of this season, the roster will likely undergo further changes. The Birds started the season with 33 players who’ll test restricted or unrestricted free agency during the 2026 NFL offseason. Thanks to some departures and roster cuts, the Eagles currently have 22 unrestricted free agents, according to Over The Cap. Several key factors include a pending contract extension for Jalen Carter and the contract status for star tight end Dallas Goedert.
Reed Blankenship is one of the biggest names on the list, and the defense could look drastically different with Nakobe Dean entering the final year of his rookie deal.
The new league year is fast approaching, and with less than one month until January 1, the NFL released key dates for the next calendar year. The most important date after the Super Bowl is the early negotiation window. That’ll open on March 9, giving teams two days to negotiate before free agency and the new league year kicks off on March 11.
10. Jaelan Phillips, Edge
Phillips was better than advertised in his debut with the Eagles, logging six tackles, a fumble recovery, and a 4th-and-1 stop for loss in a one-score game with under 2 minutes left. Phillips also had one tackle for loss and two QB hits.
What ESPN said: Injuries have reduced Phillips’ range, but he has the physical tools that teams look for on the edge. With his long 6-foot-5 frame, Phillips can play as both an edge setter and a pocket disrupter. In his first game with the Eagles on Monday night, Phillips had four pressures and one tackle for loss. Over his five-year career, Phillips has accounted for 26 sacks and 127 pressures. — Bowen
Many personnel evaluators once viewed Phillips as a near top-10 player at his position. Injuries derailed that ascension temporarily. But he has shown improvement this season, and the Eagles are counting on Vic Fangio maximizing Phillips’ enormous potential. Philly could get a quality compensatory pick for Phillips in free agency to help offset the third-round pick sent to Miami in last week’s trade. And if things go well, the Eagles could tap into its aggressive nature and attempt to re-sign him. — Fowler