Eagles Add Defensive Depth With Two Underrated Signings
After a slow start in free agency, Philadelphia Eagles general manager Howie Roseman continued to add talent late on Thursday night. The Eagles watched from the sidelines early, as nine of their own free agents departed elsewhere. Now Roseman is starting to retool Philadelphia’s roster ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.
According to multiple reports, the Eagles have signed edge rusher Arnold Ebiketie and cornerback Jonathan Jones. Philadelphia’s latest additions aren’t much of a surprise, as both players have been tied to the Eagles this offseason. Here’s more on what each player will bring to the City of Brotherly Love.
Arnold Ebiketie, EDGE
The Eagles reportedly signed former Atlanta Falcons edge rusher Arnold Ebiketie to a one-year deal with $4.3 million fully guaranteed. Ebiketie can earn a maximum of $7.3 million with his new deal in Philadelphia. The 27-year-old is no stranger to the area, as he played at both Temple and Penn State in college.
The Eagles also hosted Ebiketie on a 30 visit ahead of the 2022 NFL Draft. Now Ebiketie will return to Philadelphia and look to provide the Eagles with much-needed depth on the edge. Ebiketie recorded 16.5 sacks during his four seasons in Atlanta and only started 12 games.
At 6’2”, 250 lbs. with 34 1/8” arms, Ebiketie has the size to survive on the edge. He isn’t afraid to set the edge and has shown plenty of flashes as a pass rusher. Ebiketie also has the ability to drop in coverage, which Vic Fangio values. Ultimately, this is a low-risk addition that should help the Eagles fill-out their edge rusher rotation in 2026.
Jonathan Jones, CB
The Eagles reportedly signed veteran cornerback Jonathan Jones to a one-year deal, although the terms are undisclosed. Jones signed a one-year, $5.5 million deal with the Washington Commanders in 2025 and this deal will likely be cheaper. At 32-years old, Jones won’t provide much upside but he has plenty of experience.
According to Pro Football Focus, Jones has played over 2,000+ snaps at both slot cornerback and outside cornerback in the NFL. He has also played over 200+ snaps at safety. Therefore, Jones will provide the Eagles with a versatile backup that also has plenty of starting experience in the league at multiple positions.
It also helps that Jones has a strong relationship with new Eagles secondary coach Mike Pellegrino. The duo was together with the New England Patriots for nine seasons and Pellegrino served as Jones’ position coach for six seasons. Now they’ll be reunited in Philadelphia and look to elevate the Eagles secondary in 2026.