The NFL world was sent into shock when the Cleveland Browns traded Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams. The Rams gave up defensive end Jared Verse along with a 2027 first-round pick, a 2028 second-round pick, and a 2029 third-round pick.
That's a hefty price tag to pay, but Garrett is one of the best pass rushers in the NFL and gives the Rams another superstar as they chase a Super Bowl. The Eagles were one of the teams that made a push to trade but weren't able to get the deal across the finish line. And their reluctance to include defensive tackle Jalen Carter may be the reason for that.
Ryan Fowler of NBC Sports Philadelphia revealed that Carter's name had popped up in negotiations, but no deals with him had progressed. The Eagles' decision not to use Carter in any potential offer shows how highly they view him, and he'll be a building block for this team going forward.
Eagles didn't include Jalen Carter in any offer for Myles Garrett
Fowler also called out that the Eagles likely used a combination of Nolan Smith and Jalyx Hunt with some picks for Garrett, but that wasn't enough, as the Rams were willing to include an upcoming player in Verse.
Carter's involvement in any offer may have gotten the deal done. Instead, fans in Philadelphia can come away believing that he'll be in line next to get an extension. They already picked up his fifth-year option for the 2027 season, but there's a great chance that he lands a new deal before then.
Through three seasons, Carter has been a game-wrecker along the interior. In 43 games, he has finished with 108 total tackles, 25 TFLs, 37 QB hits, and 13.5 sacks. He has also gotten his hands up at the line of scrimmage, logging 13 pass deflections.
Carter is just 25 years old and is entering the prime of his career. The Eagles understand and know the impact he brings to the table. It also helps that defensive tackles get paid less than edges. The highest-paid defensive tackle is Kansas City's Chris Jones, who is making $31 million per year.
Meanwhile, Sam Monson of the 33rd Team expressed that Garrett's average APY is $33 million over the next three years. That's a bargain when you consider how effective Garrett is, but he's going to be 35 years old when his deal expires.
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The Eagles didn't want to give up a younger star in exchange for Garrett. While acquiring the star pass rusher would have been an excellent move, their love for Carter shined through. And all signs point to him being a long-term force for this team.
