Watching Maxx Crosby be traded hurt a lot of fans of other franchises, but Philadelphia Eagles fans might be more mixed about it.
The Baltimore Ravens gave up two first-round picks to get Crosby, so a high price tag is one way to think this is good for the Eagles, not to sell the future for him. It will also help them save money on a player whose cap hit will be over $30 million in 2026.
This all means the Eagles are on a crash course to get a deal done with pending free-agent edge rusher Jaelan Phillips. Even though there might be a bit more desperation from Eagles general manager Howie Roseman to get a deal done with Phillips, there are consequences if it is not handled correctly.
Eagles must be careful with Jaelan Phillips contract negotiations
According to Sportrac, Phillips is in line to get an estimated $17.3 million per year contract. That number might be more on the low side, as he could be in line to get more money.
Despite the fact that he only got five sacks in 2025, he was ninth in the NFL in pressures (73) and fifth in hurries (57). Phillips made a dramatic impact on this Eagles' defense, which couldn't pressure the quarterback in the first half of the season without him.
The concern is that Roseman must be careful not to overpay for Phillips as well. Remember, this is a guy who has had two serious injuries in his NFL career that have affected his availability on the field. He played just 12 games between 2023 and 2024, dealing with Achilles and knee injuries.
Most likely, Phillips could be looking at a new deal in the $20 million-per-year range, which might be where the Eagles would be stretched thin. Anything more than that, Roseman should consider walking away from the negotiation table, as badly as they want Phillips back.
One thing to consider is future negotiations with young stars on the Eagles. Guys like Jordan Davis and Jalen Carter will most likely get new deals this offseason, while Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean are looking at new deals in 2027 or 2028.
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The Eagles know how good Phillips is, but he still has a lot to prove with staying healthy consistently and getting more in the sack department. Roseman shouldn't overshoot on Phillips as that could have a massive effect on the future.