Well, it certainly didn't take long for Philadelphia Eagles general manager Howie Roseman to make sure the roster is in top shape.
ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter reported on Friday that the Eagles have signed defensive end Za'Darius Smith to a one-year deal. Jordan Schultz added that the deal has an upside of $9 million.
Sources: Former Lions DE Za'Darius Smith is signing a one-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) September 5, 2025
It’s another pass rusher for 1-0 Philadelphia. pic.twitter.com/RwKb6ep6DM
Smith is coming off a season that saw him with the Cleveland Browns and the Detroit Lions. In 17 games, he made 35 tackles, 17 quarterback hits, nine tackles for loss, and nine sacks.
During his career, Smith had 69 sacks and has made the Pro Bowl three times. He's also played for the Baltimore Ravens, Green Bay Packers, and Minnesota Vikings.
The Eagles also announced that they have placed fullback Ben VanSumeren on injured reserve. VanSumeren got hurt on the very first place of the Cowboys game on kickoff where he was carted off the field afterwards.
We have signed DE Za'Darius Smith and placed FB Ben VanSumeren on Injured Reserve. pic.twitter.com/YxdEsI9KfM
— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) September 5, 2025
Are the Eagles' edge rushers on notice?
During the Eagles' 24-20 win over the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday night, they got some pressure on Dak Prescott, but weren't able to capitalize on those with a single sack. Moro Ojomo was the only lineman who had a quarterback hit in the win.
The Eagles' edge rushers have always been a question for the team. Nolan Smith Jr. and Jalyx Hunt had average days at the office against Dallas, but Smith's two personal foul penalties were not significant to see. Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio had made comments during training camp that he was waiting for one of the backup edge rushers to step up outside of Josh Uche.
This could be a loud message about Azeez Ojulari, who struggled in camp and was inactive for the game. Some could wonder if his short time with the Eagles might be over.
Read more: Eagles send former sixth-round pick packing to bring in former Patriots castoff
More moves could be made, but Roseman certainly sent a clear message that the Eagles need to be better at pressuring the quarterback and picking up sacks.