The Philadelphia Eagles entered 2025 training camp with championship expectations but lingering questions about their defensive depth.
The Super Bowl winners face significant roster gaps following the departures of Josh Sweat and Milton Williams in free agency, combined with Brandon Graham’s retirement after years of anchoring the pass rush.
The Eagles addressed these concerns on Tuesday with strategic roster moves designed to strengthen their defensive front.
“We’ve signed DE Ogbonnia Okoronkwo and DT Jacob Sykes and waived DE KJ Henry and RB Lew Nichols.” The team announced.
We’ve signed DE Ogbonnia Okoronkwo and DT Jacob Sykes and waived DE KJ Henry and RB Lew Nichols. pic.twitter.com/DKayPWTejq
— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) July 22, 2025
The organization continues working fresh talent into Vic Fangio’s defensive system while evaluating which players can fill crucial depth roles.
First-round selection Jihaad Campbell and second-rounder Andrew Mukuba represent the young core expected to contribute immediately.
However, Philadelphia also turned to veteran experience by adding edge rusher Ogbonnia Okoronkwo.
The 30-year-old brings seven NFL seasons of experience after recording 17 career sacks with the Los Angeles Rams, Houston Texans, and Cleveland Browns.
Okoronkwo appeared in 16 games for Cleveland last season, posting three sacks, 23 tackles, and six quarterback hits.
His most productive campaign came in 2022 with Houston when he registered five sacks and 11 quarterback hits.
Cleveland released Okoronkwo in late June, making him available for Philadelphia’s crowded edge group that already includes Nolan Smith Jr., Jalyx Hunt, Azeez Ojulari, and Josh Uche.
With limited roster spots available, the competition for defensive roles should intensify as the Eagles prepare to defend their championship.
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