One big question for the Philadelphia Eagles this offseason, besides what to do about star wide receiver A.J. Brown, is whether to re-sign edge rusher Jaelan Phillips.
Phillips is expected to command $15-17 million per season as a free agent, which could create some competition for the Eagles and put them at risk of getting outbid. That would leave the only option to fill the edge rusher role as executing a trade, which Bleacher Report writer Moe Moton believes would be the best for Philly: calling the Green Bay Packers to acquire edge rusher Rashan Gary.
"If the Philadelphia Eagles lose Jaelan Phillips in free agency, they'll be in desperate need of an impact pass-rusher. Jalyx Hunt made strides in his second year, but Nolan Smith hasn't played up to first-rounder expectations. Based on general manager Howie Roseman's tendency to stock up on offensive and defensive linemen, he could be aggressive in an attempt to add a veteran pass-rusher. Don't be surprised if Rashan Gary is on his radar. Typically, the Packers are hesitant to negotiate with players who have multiple years left on their contracts, but Gary is unlikely to play out the 2026 season on a non-guaranteed deal. Expect the 2024 Pro Bowler to push for a restructured pact for financial security following back-to-back 7.5-sack seasons. If the Packers aren't willing to work with Gary on a new deal, Roseman may be one of several general managers to make an offer for him."
Should the Eagles call the Packers about Rashan Gary?
Gary's current contract won't be any different from the one Phillips could land, as he has two more years on his deal. If the Eagles acquired Gary, they would face cap hits of $28 million in 2026 and $31 million in 2027.
Last season, Gary had 7.5 sacks on the season with the Packers, but had a decent season at best with 54 pressures, 35 hurries, and 12 quarterback hits to add to it. Pro Football Focus graded him out at a 68.2, ranking him 52nd out of 115 edge rushers in the NFL.
It's not a bad option for the Eagles if they lose out on Phillips, as long as it doesn't cost them a high draft pick. General manager Howie Roseman might be better off, though, going cheaper and finding a young edge rusher in the NFL Draft, with the position being the deepest.
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The Eagles have some tough decisions to make, but Roseman should understand that making a splash trade isn't always the best option. Gary is a nice-to-have, but his production would not be as much of a help to Philly's defense as Phillips has been.