Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio took the podium to talk to the media, and his update on two-time Pro Bowl Jalen Carter is the news 31 NFL teams did not want to hear.
The 2025 season was not the best for Carter, as he was ejected on the first play of their Week 1 win over the Dallas Cowboys and dealt with multiple injuries to his heel and shoulders. Even with 11 games played, he still made the Pro Bowl, and the best part is Fangio's update on Carter ensures the 2026 campaign is looking good.
"I think his shoulders are fine. He's had a good offseason of lifting," Fangio said via Eagles Wire's Glenn Erby. "I think he started that earlier than normal for him, and you can see the difference in that regard. I think he's in a better spot now than he was."
Jalen Carter is looking better than ever going into the 2026 season for the Eagles
Carter finished the 2025 season with 33 tackles, 12 quarterback hits, seven pass deflections, five tackles for loss, and three sacks in 11 games. He also made an impact on special teams with two blocks, one on a field goal and the other on an extra point.
Yes, last season was not the best for Carter, but even when he was not at 100%, he was still one of the best defensive players on the field and delivered some great performances. Imagine him a year older, with more time in this defense, and healthier than ever. That's a guy who can make a difference and really elevate his game.
Carter will need to step up after the Eagles picked up his fifth-year option, which will be worth $27.1 million in 2027. He will be playing for a new contract at this point, as no contract extension has been reached just yet.
The good news is that going into the 2026 season, he will have his partner in crime, Jordan Davis, for a long time after he signed his contract extension. With Moro Ojomo back for at least one more season, this might be the best defensive line in the NFL.
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Eagles fans are hoping Carter has matured in the offseason and learned from his hardship. If he can get back to the guy in 2024, he will not only improve his performance but also reset the defensive tackle market with a new contract.
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